Skipper Alyssa Healy continued her incredible form, smashing an unbeaten 113 as Australia stormed into the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup 2025 with a dominant 10-wicket win over Bangladesh in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. The victory marked Australia’s fourth win in five matches, cementing their place as the first team to reach the tournament’s final four.
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Chasing a modest target of 199, Healy and her opening partner Phoebe Litchfield made the task look effortless. The duo shared an unbroken 202-run partnership, steering Australia home in just 24.5 overs. Litchfield remained unbeaten on 84, sealing the match with two consecutive boundaries off Fariha Trisna. Their partnership showcased a masterclass in timing, precision, and confidence as they demolished the Bangladeshi attack without losing a wicket.
Healy, who had already impressed with a 142-run knock in the previous match against co-hosts India, carried her momentum into this game. Her 77-ball century was laced with 20 boundaries, reflecting her dominance over both pace and spin. Litchfield complemented her captain beautifully, scoring her eighth ODI fifty with 12 fours and a six.
Australia’s victory was set up by their spinners earlier in the day, who restricted Bangladesh to 198-9 after they chose to bat first. The spin trio of Ashleigh Gardner, Alana King, and Georgia Wareham picked up two wickets each, ensuring Bangladesh never gained control of their innings. Megan Schutt provided the early breakthrough by dismissing opener Rubya Haider for 44 after a brisk start. Rubya’s innings, featuring eight boundaries, had given Bangladesh hope before Gardner’s sharp turners and King’s variations dismantled the middle order.
Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana’s side struggled to maintain partnerships after Rubya’s dismissal. Nigar herself was stumped off King’s bowling, and apart from Sobhana Mostary’s valiant 66 not out, the rest of the batting lineup failed to resist the Australian spin attack. Mostary’s composed knock ensured Bangladesh batted through their 50 overs, but the total proved far too little against the world champions.
King was named Player of the Match for her consistent bowling performance, which helped Australia maintain control throughout Bangladesh’s innings. Reflecting on the result, Healy expressed pride in her team’s professionalism and focus. “We pride ourselves in professionalism, we played well today to get the two points, and we’ll come back prepared for the next match,” she said with a smile, admitting she was unaware that the win had officially confirmed their semi-final spot.
Australia’s qualification continues their rich legacy in women’s cricket, as the seven-time champions eye another title. With two matches left in the league stage, including a much-anticipated clash against England, Healy’s side looks poised to carry their unbeaten run into the knockout rounds.
For Bangladesh, the defeat highlighted the need for consistency in their batting lineup. “In these conditions, we should get more runs,” said captain Nigar Sultana. “Not being consistent as a batting unit cost us.”
With Healy’s commanding leadership and Australia’s all-round brilliance, the defending champions have once again made a strong statement — they remain the team to beat in the Women’s World Cup 2025.
