Australia 326 (Gardner 115, Litchfield 45, Tahuhu 3-42) vs New Zealand
A blistering Ashleigh Gardner century turned Australia’s shaky start into a commanding total of 326 all out in their opening clash of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 against New Zealand at the Holkar Stadium, Indore.
Gardner Rescues Australia from Collapse
Australia were in trouble at 128 for 5 after a fiery spell from Amelia Kerr and Lea Tahuhu, who dismantled the top order with quick wickets following the powerplay. But Gardner counterattacked in style, stitching together crucial partnerships with Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, and Kim Garth.
Gardner raced to her second ODI hundred in just 77 balls, eventually scoring 115 off 83 deliveries, an innings laced with clean hitting through the covers and down the ground. Her fearless approach ensured Australia posted a daunting total, leaving New Zealand needing a record chase to win.
Litchfield Shines Early, Amelia Strikes Back
Openers Alyssa Healy and Phoebe Litchfield gave Australia a flying start, reaching 38 inside four overs with crisp boundaries. Litchfield looked in fine touch, stepping out against the seamers and striking over extra cover, guiding Australia to 81 for 1 at the end of the powerplay.
However, Amelia Kerr shifted the momentum immediately with a peach of a googly to bowl Litchfield for 45 — her 100th ODI wicket. The introduction of spin tightened the screws, and Tahuhu’s double strike, including the prized wicket of Ellyse Perry, sparked a mini-collapse.
Gardner Counterattacks in Style
Amid the pressure, Gardner walked out with intent, opening her account with a lofted cover drive and never letting New Zealand’s bowlers settle. She brought up her half-century in 43 balls with a towering six off Amelia, before accelerating further.
Her century came off just 77 deliveries, celebrated by a packed crowd in Indore — hosting its first-ever women’s ODI. Gardner’s power-hitting and composure shifted the momentum completely back to Australia.
She was dismissed in the 47th over by Jess Kerr, but not before anchoring the innings. Late contributions from Kim Garth at No. 9 helped Australia finish strongly.
What’s Next
New Zealand will now need to chase 327 — the highest-ever target in women’s ODI history — to stun the defending champions and start their World Cup campaign with a win.