Australia Women strengthened their grip on the ICC Championship title by securing a 65-run (DLS method) victory against New Zealand in the second ODI. With this win, they stand on the verge of claiming their third consecutive ICC Women’s Championship title. Annabel Sutherland’s stellar century and Kim Garth’s sharp bowling headlined the match, reflecting Australia’s dominance in the series.
India’s Hopes Depend on a Miracle
With 37 points on the ICC Women’s Championship leaderboard, Australia remains firmly at the top. India, currently second with 25 points, is the only team that can mathematically overtake Australia. However, for this to happen, India must win all six of their remaining matches in this championship cycle—three against West Indies and three against Ireland.
Adding to India’s challenge, they’ll also need New Zealand to defeat Australia in the final ODI of this series. A tie or draw in that match would cement Australia Women’s ICC Championship title for the third time in a row.
Australia, who have won every edition of the ICC Women’s Championship since its inception, once again looks unstoppable as they march toward yet another historic milestone.
Annabel Sutherland’s Century Leads the Charge
Australia’s batting charge was spearheaded by Annabel Sutherland, who smashed an unbeaten 105 off just 81 deliveries. Her incredible knock featured 11 fours and 2 sixes, marking her second consecutive century following her ton against India in the last ODI.
Sutherland received valuable support from Alyssa Healy (34 off 32), Tahlia McGrath (34 off 30), and Ellyse Perry (29 off 42), all of whom chipped in to take Australia to a daunting total of 291/7. Despite Molly Penfold’s best ODI bowling figures of 4/42 for New Zealand, the White Ferns struggled to contain Australia’s powerful batting lineup.
Kim Garth Dents New Zealand Early
In response, New Zealand faced an uphill task, made harder by Kim Garth’s fiery spell. She removed Suzie Bates (4) and Bella Jones (27) early in the innings, leaving New Zealand struggling during the Powerplay.
Amelia Kerr offered some resistance with a composed 38 off 55 balls but couldn’t build a match-defining partnership. Her dismissal at 122/5, combined with rain interrupting play, handed Australia a comfortable victory via the DLS method.
One Win Away From Glory
Australia now leads the series 1-0 with one game to play. The first ODI was washed out, making this victory pivotal. The third and final ODI, scheduled for Monday, December 23, could see Australia claim the ICC Women’s Championship title outright, further cementing their legacy as the tournament’s most successful team.
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