Australia once again underlined their dominance at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, storming to a comprehensive victory over England at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. A stunning unbeaten century from Ash Gardner (104)* and a brilliant all-round performance by Annabel Sutherland (98 and 2 wickets)* guided the defending champions to their fifth win of the campaign, propelling them back to the top of the standings with 11 points from six games.
Both teams had already confirmed their semi-final spots, but Australia’s commanding display reaffirmed why they remain the team to beat in this edition.
England Start Strong, but Sutherland Sparks Australian Comeback
Winning the toss and opting to bat, England began confidently with Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones finding early boundaries in the powerplay. The pair added 55 runs for the opening wicket before Australia’s bowlers clawed their way back.
Annabel Sutherland provided the breakthrough by dismissing Jones with a sharp delivery that nipped back to hit the off stump. Sophie Molineux followed up by trapping Heather Knight LBW, and Alana King added to the pressure by removing England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, who mistimed a lofted shot to mid-off.
Beaumont remained England’s anchor, scoring a fluent 78 off 105 balls, featuring 10 fours and a six. However, her dismissal—caught brilliantly by Georgia Voll off Sutherland—halted England’s momentum. Despite a late 61-run partnership between Alice Capsey (38) and Charlie Dean (26), England were restricted to 244 in 50 overs.
Gardner and Sutherland’s Record Stand Demolish England’s Hopes
Chasing 245, Australia endured early jitters as Lauren Bell and Linsey Smith tore through the top order. Bell’s fiery opening over saw Phoebe Litchfield bowled by a beauty, while Smith removed Georgia Voll and later Ellyse Perry in quick succession. When Beth Mooney fell to a sharp catch by Sciver-Brunt, Australia were struggling at 68/4.
From that point on, the match belonged entirely to Ash Gardner and Annabel Sutherland. The pair stitched together a match-winning 180-run partnership, one of the most dominant stands of the tournament. Gardner, batting with trademark aggression, brought up her second century of CWC25, blasting 16 fours in her 73-ball 104*.
Sutherland, playing the perfect supporting role, remained unbeaten on 98, striking nine boundaries and a six to guide Australia home with ease. Their partnership showcased not only Australia’s batting depth but also their ability to thrive under pressure.
Australia’s Winning Momentum Continues
The win sees Australia consolidate their position at the top of the eight-team table, while England remain third. Both sides are now preparing for their final league fixtures before the knockouts.
Australia will next face South Africa on October 25, in what promises to be a high-voltage clash between the top two teams, while England take on New Zealand the following day.