December 23, 2024: Australia’s victory over New Zealand in the third ODI at Basin Reserve in Wellington not only secured them a dominant 75-run win but also marked their third consecutive ICC Women’s Championship title, a remarkable achievement for the team. The win, which took Australia’s tally to 39 points from 24 matches, further solidified their position at the top of the standings, making it hard for India (37 points) to catch up, despite their remaining fixtures against West Indies and Ireland.
This defeat was a significant blow for New Zealand, whose hopes of automatic qualification for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup now hang in the balance. Australia’s win also indirectly benefitted Sri Lanka, as their qualification for the 2024 ICC Women’s World Cup was secured, with no other team able to surpass their points tally.
Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. The opening pair of Phoebe Litchfield (50 from 59 balls) and Alyssa Healy (39 from 44 balls) gave Australia a solid start, before Annabel Sutherland (42 from 43 balls) and Ashleigh Gardner (74 from 62 balls) powered the innings with some crucial middle-order contributions. Australia posted a total of 290 runs.
New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr was the standout bowler for the Kiwis, claiming 4 wickets for 54 runs, while Rosemary Mair took 3 wickets. Sophie Devine also contributed with two wickets but was unable to halt the Australian momentum.
In the chase, New Zealand’s top-order batters, led by Suzie Bates (53 from 59 balls), fought hard, but they lacked the necessary partnerships to chase down the total. Maddy Green (39 from 35 balls), Brooke Halliday (27 from 36 balls), and Devine (25 from 41 balls) showed promise but couldn’t build the partnerships needed to challenge Australia’s total. The Kiwis were all out for 215 in just 44 overs.
Australia’s bowling attack, led by Annabel Sutherland and Alana King (both with 3 wickets), was clinical in dismantling New Zealand’s chase. Sutherland’s all-round performance earned her the ‘Player of the Match’ award.
Australia’s dominance in the ICC Women’s Championship is evident, and their consistent performance underscores their strength in women’s cricket globally.
New Zealand’s qualification hopes for the 2025 World Cup are now uncertain, especially with other teams like India, West Indies, and Ireland still fighting for points.
Sri Lanka’s qualification for the 2024 ICC Women’s World Cup was also confirmed, taking some of the pressure off as they can now focus on preparing for the event.
Australia’s comprehensive win, combined with strategic performances from their bowlers and batters, ensures they remain the team to beat in women’s cricket.
