Australia extended their unbeaten run with a commanding six-wicket victory over England in the Women’s World Cup on Wednesday, producing a performance that was clinical from start to finish. Despite an early wobble at 68 for four, the defending champions produced a match-defining partnership between Annabel Sutherland and Ash Gardner that turned the contest on its head.
The duo combined counter-attacking intent with composure, producing one of the finest partnerships of the tournament. Sutherland, who had struggled for runs before, rose to the occasion, initially outscoring Gardner before a late flourish saw Gardner overtake her. In a show of team spirit, Sutherland urged Gardner to complete the century, prioritising the partnership over personal milestones.
AUS vs ENG, Women’s World Cup: Highlights
Australia’s bowling set the tone early. Wily wrist-spinner Alana King (1/20 in 10 overs) demonstrated why she remains one of the most skilful in the game, while left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux picked up two key wickets. Seamer Annabel Sutherland (3/60) bowled with accuracy and control, stifling the English batters.
Tammy Beaumont struck a patient 78 off 105 balls to give England an encouraging start. She looked in sublime touch, flicking the first delivery through square leg and lofting Kim Garth over mid-wicket for a majestic six. Amy Jones (18) supported with three well-timed boundaries off Megan Schutt, punishing anything too full or wide. The openers added 55 for the first wicket, providing a solid platform.
However, Sutherland’s introduction into the attack brought immediate reward, as she dismissed Jones to halt England’s momentum. Beaumont briefly found support in Heather Knight (20), adding 35 for the second wicket, before Molineux trapped Knight and King sent back Nat Sciver-Brunt cheaply, leaving England in trouble. Sophia Dunkley (22) struggled under mounting pressure, and further wickets, including Beaumont’s mis-timed loft to Georgia Voll, ensured England could not accelerate in the final overs. Capsey (38) and Dean (26) offered late resistance but were eventually undone by disciplined spin.
Chasing 245, Australia faced early jitters but the Sutherland-Gardner partnership blunted any English advantage. Both also contributed with the ball, underscoring Australia’s all-round strength. Their 180-run stand was a demonstration of counter-attacking batting at its finest and a reminder of why this team remains the benchmark in women’s cricket.
Even though the game lacked major implications, with both teams already semifinal-bound, Australia’s victory was a statement. From 68/4, they displayed skill, temperament, and depth to dominate a quality England side. With Sutherland and Gardner firing and King weaving her magic with the ball, the defending champions are firing on all cylinders. On current form, it is hard to see who can stop them.
– Ends
