Australia Dominates Bangladesh to Secure World Cup Semi-Final Spot

Australia cemented their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Cricket World Cup by defeating Bangladesh by 10 wickets. The defending champions achieved this milestone with two matches remaining in the group stage. Australia successfully chased down Bangladesh’s total of 198 runs, finishing at 202 without loss in just 24.5 overs.

Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 113 not out off just 77 balls. She was well-supported by Phoebe Litchfield, who contributed 84 not out from 72 balls. This victory not only extended Australia’s unbeaten World Cup streak to 13 consecutive matches but also showcased their dominance in the tournament.

Healy’s innings included a remarkable 20 boundaries and marked her second consecutive century, following her impressive 142 against India earlier in the tournament. Litchfield also made her mark with 12 fours and a six, helping to maintain a brisk scoring rate throughout the chase.

Bangladesh’s Struggles Against Australian Bowling

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh struggled to build a substantial total. Their innings was characterized by a slow start, with opener Rubya Haider top-scoring with 44 runs from 59 balls. The Australian bowling attack, spearheaded by wrist spinner Alana King, effectively dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup. King took 2 wickets for 18 runs in her ten overs and was named the player of the match.

“We had a plan to bowl to our strengths,” King said. “There has been a bit of spin here, and length is key. I’m really happy to keep them to a reasonable score today and play my part.”

While Sobhana Mostary provided some resistance with an unbeaten 66 runs off 80 balls, the rest of the batting order faltered, with none of the last six batters reaching double figures. Australia’s spinners, including Ashleigh Gardner and Georgia Wareham, also contributed with two wickets each, ensuring Bangladesh fell short of a competitive score.

Historic Partnership and Records Achieved

The opening partnership between Healy and Litchfield was particularly noteworthy. They scored their first 100 runs in just 83 balls and reached 150 runs off 125 balls. This partnership became Australia’s third highest for any wicket in Women’s Cricket World Cups, as well as the second highest chase without losing a wicket in women’s One Day Internationals (ODIs).

With the victory, Australia now stands at nine points from five matches, while Bangladesh remains in sixth place with just two points from five games. The next phase of the tournament will see Australia continue their quest to defend their title, with the semi-finals scheduled for November 2, 2025.

As the Women’s Cricket World Cup progresses, fans can expect thrilling matches ahead, with Australia looking to maintain their dominant form.