“Gardner’s century and all-round brilliance set the tone for Australia’s World Cup campaign.”
Australia Women kicked off their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign with an emphatic 89-run win over New Zealand at Holkar Stadium in Indore.
Batting first, Australia piled up 326 runs in 49.3 overs. Ashleigh Gardner starred with 115 runs, hitting 16 fours and a six. She became the first-ever batter at No. 6 or lower to score a century in World Cup history.
New Zealand struggled in their chase and lost early wickets. Captain Sophie Devine fought hard, scoring 111 runs, but the White Ferns fell short, getting bowled out for 237 in 43.2 overs. Sophie Molineux (3/25) and Annabel Sutherland (3/26) led Australia’s bowling attack, with Sutherland taking three wickets in one over to finish the match.
Gardner earned the Player of the Match award for her all-round performance. Australia extended their winning streak over New Zealand to 16 consecutive ODIs. The team will face Sri Lanka in Colombo on October 4, aiming to continue their strong start in the tournament.