In a performance that left fans breathless and rivals rattled, Alana King delivered a spell for the ages at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025—ripping through South Africa’s batting lineup with a devastating 7 for 18 to power Australia into the semi-finals. The defending champions remain unbeaten, and their next challenge? A blockbuster showdown against hosts India .
Alana King’s Record-Breaking Spell
From the very first over, Alana King looked unplayable. Operating with pinpoint control and deceptive variations, the leg-spinner tore through South Africa’s top and middle order, finishing with figures of 7/18 in just 6.5 overs—the best by an Australian woman in Women’s World Cup history .
Her victims included key batters like Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus, both dismissed cheaply as South Africa collapsed to a paltry 97 all out in just 31.3 overs. King’s spell wasn’t just effective—it was historic, marking only the second seven-wicket haul ever in Women’s ODI World Cup tournaments.
Australia’s Chase: Brief Wobble, Then Dominance
Despite losing an early wicket, Australia’s chase never looked in serious trouble. Veteran Beth Mooney (42*) anchored the innings with her trademark composure, while young gun Georgia Voll (38*) provided the spark with elegant cover drives and sharp running between wickets.
The pair added an unbroken 89-run stand for the second wicket, sealing victory in just 23.1 overs. Their partnership underscored Australia’s depth and balance—a team firing on all cylinders as the knockout stage begins.
What This Means for the Semi-Finals
With this win, Australia top their group and set up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The match promises fireworks: India, riding a wave of home support and strong performances from Harmanpreet Kaur and Shafali Verma, will face the ultimate test against the tournament’s most dominant side.
Alana King’s Rise in World Cricket
Once seen as a supporting act in Australia’s star-studded attack, King has now emerged as a match-winner in her own right. Her economy rate of 2.63 in this tournament and strike rate of under 20 balls per wicket highlight her growing influence in high-pressure games.
Women’s World Cup 2025: Key Bowling Stats
| Player | Figures | Overs | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alana King (AUS) | 7/18 | 6.5 | 2.63 |
| Sarah Glenn (ENG) | 5/21 | 8.0 | 2.62 |
| Deepti Sharma (IND) | 4/19 | 9.0 | 2.11 |
King’s figures now stand as the best of the tournament so far—and among the finest in Women’s World Cup history.
Looking Ahead: Australia vs India – The Ultimate Test
Fans across the globe are already circling the semi-final date. For India, it’s a chance to dethrone the queens of women’s cricket on home soil. For Australia, it’s an opportunity to extend their legacy and march toward a third consecutive World Cup title.
One thing is certain: with Alana King in this kind of form, no batting lineup is safe.