Defending champions Australia cruised to a seven-wicket win over South Africa in Indore, with Alana King producing the best bowling figures in Women’s World Cup history.
King’s remarkable 7-18 dismantled South Africa, who were bowled out for just 97 in 24 overs. Australia chased the target comfortably, finishing in 16.5 overs.
Introduced in the 12th over, King struck with her second delivery and kept up relentless pressure throughout. Her looping leg-spin extracted turn, drift, and dip, leaving South African batters struggling. King even took a stunning diving catch at short mid-wicket to dismiss the Proteas’ skipper, triggering a collapse.
“Some deliveries gripped more than others, but it felt great to hit my straps today. I’m thrilled heading into the knockouts,” said King.
King’s 7-wicket haul is the first in Women’s World Cup history, surpassing Jackie Lord’s 6-10 for New Zealand in 1982, and also the best bowling figures by an Australian in women’s ODIs.
South Africa had a flying start with Laura Wolvaardt scoring 31 off 26 balls, but King’s spell completely turned the game.
With the win, Australia finished the league stage unbeaten and on top of the table, setting up a semi-final clash against hosts India in Navi Mumbai. South Africa, meanwhile, will face England in Guwahati.
“It was a decent wicket to bat on and credit to King, she bowled beautifully,” Wolvaardt admitted.
Sunday’s matches, England vs New Zealand and India vs Bangladesh, are now dead rubbers, with the semi-final line-up confirmed.