Australia delivered a commanding performance in Indore, crushing South Africa by seven wickets to bring an end to the Proteas’ six-match unbeaten run at the Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Star spinner Alana King stole the spotlight, claiming the best bowling figures in the tournament’s history, as South Africa were bundled out for a mere 97 runs. The emphatic victory keeps Australia unbeaten and at the top of the standings heading into the knockout stages.
With this defeat, the Proteas now turn their focus to a semi-final clash against England on Thursday in Mumbai (11:30 SA time), while Australia will face hosts India on Wednesday.
Despite a shaky start to their defense, South Africa showed brief moments of fight. Marizanne Kapp (1/11) struck early, removing Phoebe Litchfield (5), before Masabata Klaas (1/14) dismissed veteran Ellyse Perry for a duck — courtesy of a stunning diving catch by Nadine de Klerk at backward point.
Australia, momentarily at 11 for 2, steadied the innings through Georgia Voll and Beth Mooney, who combined for a solid 76-run partnership. De Klerk managed a late breakthrough by dismissing Mooney for 42, but it was too little, too late.
Voll guided Australia to victory with an unbeaten 38 off 38 balls, sealing the result with 199 balls to spare — a dominant statement from the defending champions.
For the Proteas, it was a sobering reminder of the gap that still exists at the very top — but they’ll have a quick chance to redeem themselves when they meet England for a place in the final.
