Indore, India – Ash Gardner‘s explosive century powered Australia to an 89-run victory over New Zealand, launching their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title defense in emphatic style on Saturday.
gardner’s 115 off 83 balls rescued Australia from 128-5, propelling them to a competitive total of 326. The seven-time champions then restricted New Zealand to 237 all out, securing a dominant opening win in the tournament.
Australia captain Alyssa Healy won the toss and elected to bat, with Phoebe Litchfield providing a brisk start, scoring 45 off 31 balls as they reached 81-1 at the end of the powerplay. However, Litchfield was bowled by melie Kerr with the first ball of the 11th over, slowing the Australian momentum.
Gardner arrived at the crease with the score at 128-5 and quickly took control, forging partnerships of 64 with Tahlia McGrath and 69 with Alana King. She was eventually dismissed caught behind off Bree Illing after her impactful innings.
In reply, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine led the chase with a determined century of her own, scoring 112 off 100 balls, including 12 fours and three sixes. Devine rebuilt the innings with a 75-run stand with Kerr, but her dismissal triggered a collapse.
Annabel Sutherland proved decisive, dismissing Devine and then claiming further wickets in the 43rd over. New Zealand lost their last four wickets for just two runs, succumbing to Australia’s pressure with 40 balls remaining.
sutherland finished with key wickets, while Gardner’s batting performance earned her Player of the Match honors.Australia will look to build on this strong start as they continue their campaign to retain the World Cup title.
