Gardner’s Century Powers Australia Past Devine’s Fight in Women’s World Cup 2025
The Australia vs New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025 clash in Indore turned into a battle of individual brilliance. Ashleigh Gardner’s stunning century lifted Australia to a commanding total, while Sophie Devine’s valiant ton was not enough as the White Ferns fell 89 runs short. With this win, Australia started their title defense in dominant fashion.
Gardner’s rescue act for Australia
Australia were in deep trouble at 128 for 5, but Gardner’s brilliance changed the game. Her 115 off 83 balls revived the innings and propelled the total to 326. The attacking right-hander countered both spin and pace with aggressive stroke play, punishing anything loose through the covers and down the ground.
Earlier, Phoebe Litchfield’s fluent 45 set the stage, though Amelia Kerr and Lea Tahuhu sparked a collapse that put New Zealand on top briefly. However, Gardner’s explosive partnership in the middle overs shifted momentum back to Australia. Her century on Indore’s debut as a women’s ODI venue proved decisive.
Devine fights hard in New Zealand chase
The Australia vs New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025 chase began disastrously for the White Ferns. Georgia Plimmer was run out in the first over, followed by Suzie Bates’ dismissal for a duck. At 24 for 2, pressure mounted quickly. Sophie Devine, however, showed resilience and led from the front.
Captain Sophie Devine leads from the front with a stunning 112 against Australia! 🔥💪
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Her counter-attack included powerful boundaries and steady strike rotation. Devine reached a 69-ball half-century and later completed her ninth ODI century with a six over deep midwicket. Despite her efforts, wickets fell regularly at the other end. Brooke Halliday and Amelia Kerr provided short-lived support, but Australia’s bowlers, led by Annabel Sutherland and Sophie Molineux, kept control.
Bowling brilliance seals Australia’s win
Australia’s bowlers ensured New Zealand never got close to the target. Molineux, returning from injury, struck early with figures of 3 for 25. Sutherland added a decisive spell, claiming three wickets in one over, including Devine, to crush New Zealand’s hopes. Adamant bowling changes and sharp fielding highlighted Australia’s dominance in the middle overs.
The 89-run victory in the Australia vs New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025 opener underlined the champions’ depth. While Devine’s century added fight, the lack of partnerships cost New Zealand dearly.
Australia Women dominate with an 89-run win over New Zealand in the World Cup!
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Key takeaway from Australia vs New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025
The contest showcased Gardner’s match-winning class and Devine’s lone resistance. Australia’s ability to recover from setbacks and finish strong proved the difference. With a convincing start, the defending champions sent a strong message to rivals in the Women’s World Cup 2025.
