Can Sophie Devine’s 112 Save New Zealand from Australia's Title Defence?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating opener of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, Australia's impressive win showcased their dominance against New Zealand despite Sophie Devine's remarkable performance. With a strong team effort, the defending champions proved their intent to retain the title. Read on for detailed insights and highlights from the match.
Key Takeaways
- Sophie Devine scored a valiant 112.
- Australia began their title defence with a strong win.
- Sophie Molineux and Annabel Sutherland excelled with the ball.
- New Zealand struggled despite a promising partnership.
- The match showcased Australia’s dominance in women’s cricket.
Indore, Oct 1 (NationPress) Sophie Devine’s remarkable 112 went unrewarded as Australia kicked off their title defence in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup with an authoritative 89-run victory over New Zealand at Holkar Stadium on Wednesday.
In pursuit of a challenging 327, New Zealand appeared to be in a strong position at 218/5 before collapsing to 237 all out in 43.2 overs. Sophie’s innings of 112 off 112 balls, which featured 12 fours and 3 sixes, stood out as the sole highlight for the White Ferns. During her innings, she achieved the milestone of becoming the fourth woman to score 4,000 ODI runs for New Zealand.
For Australia, returning left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux and seam-bowling all-rounder Annabel Sutherland each took 3 wickets to dismantle the Kiwi batting lineup. Earlier, Australia had set a formidable total of 326 all out in 49.3 overs, powered by Ashleigh Gardner’s brilliant 115 and solid contributions from the lower order.
The chase for 327 began poorly for New Zealand, losing two wickets in the first two overs. Georgia Plimmer was run out for a duck on the last ball of the opening over, following a mix-up with Suzie Bates, who also fell for a duck after an inside edge off Sophie Molineux hit the stumps.
Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine tried to stabilize the innings with a promising 75-run partnership, but Australia regained control through leg-spinner Alana King, who claimed two wickets by dismissing Amelia and Brooke Halliday, leaving Sophie stranded.
New Zealand’s situation worsened when Maddy Green was run out in a second mix-up. Izzy Gaze provided a brief spark with a cameo of 28 and formed a 50-run stand with Sophie, but as the run rate escalated, Izzy fell trying to clear long-on, giving Molineux her second wicket.
Annabel decisively shifted the momentum in Australia’s direction by taking three wickets in the 43rd over, including Sophie, who had reached her ninth ODI century with a six, along with Jess Kerr and Eden Carson, leaving New Zealand with little resistance in the final overs.
Sophie Molineux concluded the innings by dismissing Bree Illing, sealing a convincing 89-run win for Australia, the defending champions, who demonstrated that they are among the top contenders to retain their title.
Brief scores:
Australia 326 all out in 49.3 overs (Ashleigh Gardner 115, Phoebe Litchfield 45; Lea Tahuhu 3-42, Jess Kerr 3-59) beat New Zealand 237 all out in 43.2 overs (Sophie Devine 112, Amelia Kerr 33; Sophie Molineux 3-25, Annabel Sutherland 3-26) by 89 runs
Point of View
I commend the efforts of both teams in a highly competitive match. Australia displayed exceptional skill and strategy, while New Zealand, despite their loss, had notable performances that showcased their potential. This match sets an exciting tone for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
Australia scored 326 all out and defeated New Zealand, who scored 237 all out, by 89 runs.
Who was the standout player for New Zealand?
Sophie Devine was the standout player for New Zealand, scoring a remarkable 112 runs.
How many wickets did Sophie Molineux take?
Sophie Molineux took 3 wickets for 25 runs in the match.
What was Australia's total before New Zealand's innings?
Australia posted a total of 326 runs before New Zealand began their innings.
Which Australian player scored the highest runs?
Ashleigh Gardner scored the highest runs for Australia with 115 runs.
