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INDORE: Skipper Sophie Devine’s ton went in vain as Australia humbled New Zealand by 89 runs in the second fixture of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 here at the Holkar Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
The defending champions started their title defence with a 16th straight victory over New Zealand.
“The defending champions started their title defence on a perfect note, as Australia’s opening World Cup win marked their 16th straight victory over the Black Caps.”
Set a daunting 327-run target, New Zealand’s batting faltered and were bundled out for 237 in 43.2 overs.
Australia’s bowlers endured a miserable start in New Zealand as they lost both of their openers on ducks. As a result, they were reduced to 0-2 in 1.3 overs.
However, Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine put New Zealand back on course in the chase with a 75-run partnership. However, Australia chipped in with regular wickets in the middle, which never allowed the Black Caps to play with freedom.
Devine remained the top-scorer with 111 off 112 balls, laced with 12 fours and three sixes.
For Australia, Annabel Sutherland and Sophie Molineux starred with the ball, picking up three wickets each.
Earlier, Ashleigh Gardner rose to the occasion with a masterful century, rescuing her side as Australian women posted a strong total.
After opting to bat first, Australia were bowled out for 326 runs in 49.3 overs.
The openers were off to a flyer with 40 on the board at the end of five overs. Skipper Alyssa Healy scored 19 from 17 balls with the help of three fours before getting dismissed by Bree Illing.
Australia batters kept up the run rate despite the wickets tumbling, and at the end of the powerplay, they were 81-1. However, New Zealand made a strong comeback once the fielding restrictions were lifted.
Phoebe Litchfield was bowled on the first ball after the power play. She made 45 from 31 balls, striking two sixes and half a dozen fours.
The wickets in the middle over shifted momentum towards New Zealand until Ashleigh Gardner’s arrival, who added a string of partnerships with the lower order, which steadied Australia’s innings.
The 28-year-old was involved in 64, 47, and 69 runs stands with Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, and Kim Garth, respectively.
She was eventually removed in the 46th over after scoring 115 from just 83 balls, peppered with 16 fours and a six.
For New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr shared six wickets between them.
READ: Marsh’s sublime knock powers Australia to victory in T20I opener
