In Match 2 of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025, Australia Women achieved a great victory against New Zealand Women, winning by 89 runs at Holkar Stadium in Indore. After winning the toss, Australia opted to bat and scored a substantial 326 runs all out in 49.3 overs. The star of the innings was Ashleigh Gardner, who smashed a brilliant 115 off just 83 balls at number six. Phoebe Litchfield added quick runs with 45 off 31 balls, while Kim Garth scored 38 and Ellyse Perry made 33. For New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr were the most effective bowlers, taking three wickets each.

In reply to the tough target of 327 runs, New Zealand Women suffered a poor start with their first two openers getting out for ducks in the first two overs. This put them under enormous pressure against a disciplined Australian attack. Captain Sophie Devine provided a fighting knock, scoring 112 runs off 111 balls, but did not receive sufficient backup from her teammates. The balance of the batting crumbled and New Zealand were bowled out for 237 in 43.2 overs. Australia’s bowling attack kept it tight, with Annabel Sutherland and Sophie Molineux picking up three wickets each to close it out. Below are the main reasons for New Zealand Women defeat: 

1. Early Wickets in the Chase

New Zealand’s chase was off to the worst possible start, losing both openers without scoring. The early collapse meant they were always behind the required run rate. With so many runs needed, the pressure only grew stronger, leaving too much work for captain Devine alone.

2. No Big Partnerships Around Devine

Although Sophie Devine played a captain’s knock with her century, no other batter stayed long enough to form a big partnership. Small stands were broken quickly by Australia’s clever bowling. Without support at the other end, Devine’s effort could not change the result.

See Also: BCCI Advises Indian Women’s Team to Avoid Handshakes with Pakistan Ahead of World Cup

3. Gardner’s Match-Winning Century 

Australia looked in trouble when they were 128/5 but a brilliant innings from Ashleigh Gardner steadied their ship to post 326, she scored an explosive 115 runs off 83 balls. Thanks to her innings, Australia scored more than 300 which was too big a target for New Zealand.