Veteran batter rescues champions from collapse with record-breaking knock in Colombo
Australia’s title defence at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 found its spark in the bat of Beth Mooney, who produced a career-defining century to turn disaster into dominance against Pakistan in Colombo.
Walking in at a perilous 115 for 8, Mooney carved out her maiden World Cup hundred, finishing on 109, as she guided Australia to 221 all out. Her innings was supported by Alana King (51*), with the pair adding 109 runs for the ninth wicket — the highest partnership for that wicket in women’s ODI history.
What looked like a lost cause transformed into a 107-run victory, restoring Australia to the top of the tournament standings.
Pakistan on top early
Electing to bowl first, Pakistan’s attack made early inroads. Spinner Nashra Sandhu was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets and dismantling Australia’s middle order with guile and precision. Fatima Sana, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, and Diana Baig also chipped in, as Australia slumped to their lowest ebb midway through the innings.
The collapse included the dismissals of skipper Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, and Annabel Sutherland in quick succession, leaving the defending champions staring at an upset.
Mooney and King script rescue act
Mooney, however, stood tall amidst the chaos. Showing grit and composure, she first steadied the ship with Kim Garth before finding a reliable ally in King. While Mooney anchored with calculated strokes, King played with freedom, smashing three fours and three sixes in a record-breaking unbeaten 51.
Their partnership not only lifted Australia to a fighting total but also drained Pakistan of momentum heading into the chase.
Bowlers seal the deal
With a score to defend, Australia’s seamers set the tone early. Kim Garth (3 wickets) and Megan Schutt (2 wickets) struck in tandem, dismantling Pakistan’s top order inside the powerplay. Annabel Sutherland and Ash Gardner chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, while King capped her dream day by adding a wicket to her tally.
Pakistan’s only real resistance came from opener Sidra Amin, who fought hard for her 35. Beyond her effort, the innings unraveled, as Australia bundled out Pakistan for 114 in 36 overs.
What this means
For Australia, Mooney’s return to form is a massive boost as they look to secure an eighth World Cup crown. The resilience shown at R Premadasa Stadium reaffirmed the depth and fighting spirit that has defined their dominance in women’s cricket.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will rue letting a golden opportunity slip. Their bowlers had the champions on the ropes, but the inability to finish the job highlighted their struggle to close out big matches on the global stage.