Alana King takes a record 7-18 at Women’s Cricket World Cup as Australia routs South Africa

By Canadian Press on October 25, 2025.

INDORE, India (AP) — Wrist spinner Alana King took a record 7-18 as Australia thrashed South Africa by seven wickets in their final league game of the Women’s Cricket World Cup on Saturday.

King’s seven-over spell routed South Africa for just 97 runs in 24 overs, while Australia chased it down with 98-3 in only 16.5 overs.

It was the best-ever bowling spell at the Women’s Cricket World Cup — the first instance of a seven-wicket haul in tournament history.

King surpassed Jacqueline Lord’s 6-10 for New Zealand against India in 1982.

It was South Africa’s lowest total against Australia in ODIs. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt top-scored with 31.

In reply, Beth Mooney (42) and Georgia Voll (38 not out) headlined Australia’s chase.

The win ended South Africa’s five-match winning streak, as defending champion Australia finished top of the league table with six wins in seven games (and a no-result).

The seven-time champions will take on co-host India in the second semifinal in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.

The Proteas could still finish third, if England (currently third) beats New Zealand in Visakhapatnam on Sunday in its final league game. Irrespective, South Africa will play the four-time champions in the first semifinal at Guwahati on Wednesday.

India also plays Bangladesh on Sunday — the double-header bringing curtains to the league stage of this tournament.

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AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

The Associated Press