Alana King's Record Seven-Fer Powers Australia to Dominant Win Over South Africa in Women's World Cup
Australia Women dominated South Africa Women in their ICC Women's World Cup 2025/26 match at Indore, winning by seven wickets with a historic bowling performance from Alana King. King recorded the best bowling figures in Women's World Cup history with 7 wickets for 18 runs in seven overs, dismantling South Africa for a mere 97 runs in 24 overs. This incredible spell led to South Africa's collapse from a decent start of 32 runs without loss to being all out quickly. Key South African batters Laura Wolvaardt and Sinalo Jafta scored 31 and 29 runs respectively, but no other batter could contribute significantly.
In response, Australia chased down the target efficiently in just 16.5 overs, reaching 98 for 3 wickets. Beth Mooney was the top scorer with 42 runs off 41 balls, supported by Georgia Voll who remained unbeaten on 38. Annabel Sutherland also impressed with a quick cameo of 10 runs off 4 balls. With this victory, Australia maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament and sealed the top spot in the group stage. The win sets up a semifinal clash for Australia against India in Navi Mumbai on October 30, while South Africa will face England in the first semifinal on October 29 in Guwahati.
Alana King's bowling feat was a milestone as she became the first woman to take a seven-wicket haul in a Women's World Cup match, surpassing the previous record held by New Zealand's Jackie Lord. Her figures are the best ever by an Australian woman in ODI cricket, bettering Ellyse Perry's 7-22 from 2019. Australia's overall dominance in the match highlighted their strong position in the tournament and their intent to defend their title successfully.
Summary of the match details:
South Africa Women scored 97 all out in 24 overs.
Australia Women scored 98 for 3 in 16.5 overs.
Alana King (Australia) took 7 wickets for 18 runs.
Top scorers: Beth Mooney (42), Georgia Voll (38*), Laura Wolvaardt (31), Sinalo Jafta (29).
Australia won by 7 wickets.
Semifinals: Australia vs India (Navi Mumbai, Oct 30), South Africa vs England (Guwahati, Oct 29).
This match was a top-of-the-table clash and showcased Australia's bowling dominance combined with efficient batting to continue an unbeaten streak in the tournament.