Follow UsAustralia’s legspinner Alana King produced a sensational performance, claiming 7/18 against South Africa in Indore on October 25 (Saturday), setting a new record for the best bowling figures in Women’s ODI World Cup history.
The previous record was held by New Zealand’s Jackie Lord, who took 6/10 against India in 1982. King’s 7-wicket haul is only the sixth time a bowler has taken seven wickets in a Women’s ODI.
After Australia won the toss and chose to bowl, South Africa started decently, adding 32 runs for the opening wicket. However, once openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits fell, King took complete control, spinning a web around the middle and lower order.
The 29-year-old needed just 21 deliveries to claim her five-wicket haul, marking the fewest balls taken to a five-for in Women’s ODIs. King eventually finished with astonishing figures of 7/18 in seven overs, as South Africa were bowled out for 97 in 24 overs.
King also became only the third Australian spinner to claim multiple five-wicket hauls in Women’s ODIs, joining Lyn Fullston (2) and Jess Jonassen.
Overall, her 7/18 ranks as the fourth-best bowling figures in Women’s ODI history:
7/4 - Sajjida Shah (PAK) vs JAP, 2003
7/8 - Jo Chamberlain (ENG) vs DEN, 1991
7/14 - Anisa Mohammed (WI) vs PAK, 2011
7/18 - Alana King (AUS) vs SA, 2025
7/22 - Ellyse Perry (AUS) vs ENG, 2019
7/24 - Shelley Nitschke (AUS) vs ENG, 2005
Australia chased down the modest target of 98 runs in just 16.5 overs, showcasing the dominance of the Women in Yellow. They will now face India in the semi-final, while England and South Africa contest the other semi-final clash.
(Stats from Cricbuzz)