Australia cruise into the CWC25 semi-finals with a dominant win
Australia secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 with a commanding 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Chasing 199 after Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first, the defending champions chased the target in under 25 overs, reinforcing their status as the team to beat in the tournament.
Healy and Litchfield fire in a flawless run chase
The opening pair laid a rapid foundation, crafting a 100-run stand that effectively sealed the game early. Alyssa Healy produced a masterclass, scoring 113 off 77 balls and reaching her second century of the tournament with 20 boundaries. At the other end, Phoebe Litchfield supported with a measured 84, hitting 12 fours and a six as Australia sped to the target without loss.
Bangladesh bowled out for a competitive 198/9
Bangladesh’s innings was anchored by Sobhana Mostary, who remained unbeaten on 66 off 80 balls and added crucial late runs to push their total toward 200. Rubya Haider contributed 44 as the hosts attempted to string together partnerships, but Australia’s disciplined bowling kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Notably, Australia’s bowlers extracted early breakthroughs and never allowed a meaningful acceleration after the initial stand.
Australia’s bowlers strike early
Alana King broke through in the opening spell, removing Farzana Haque to start the procession. Gardner then struck twice in quick succession, taking Haider and Shorna Akter, and stifling Bangladesh’s middle order. King’s stumping of Nigar Sultana Joty and Beth Mooney’s sharp take at point to dismiss Shorna Akter further dampened Bangladesh’s momentum. Sutherland and Wareham wrapped up the lower order in the final overs, ensuring Australia kept the innings under control.
Implications: Australia top the table, semis confirmed
With this win, Australia moved to nine points from five matches, cementing their position at the top of the World Cup standings. Bangladesh, meanwhile, remained sixth with two points from five games. The result signaled Australia’s consistency across group-stage fixtures and their ability to win without fuss when their top order fires, as it did on this occasion.
What this means going forward
The triumph highlights Australia’s depth, particularly in batting, and their capacity to adapt to various match conditions. Healy’s centuries and Litchfield’s brisk knock showcased the breadth of Australia’s batting firepower. The win also gives Australia a psychological edge as the tournament progresses, while Bangladesh will look to regroup and challenge for pride in the remaining fixtures. For fans and analysts, the game reaffirmed Australia’s status as the team to beat in the race to lift the trophy again, while underscoring the competitive spirit of the Women’s World Cup.
Key performances: Alyssa Healy (113 off 77), Phoebe Litchfield (84), Sobhana Mostary (66*), Alana King (2/18), Georgia Wareham (2/22).