Alana King Becomes Second Australian Leg-Spinner to Claim 50+ ODI Wickets

Alana King has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming only the second Australian leg-spinner after Olivia Magno to surpass 50 ODI wickets. The 29-year-old leg-spin all-rounder continues to solidify her reputation as one of the leading bowlers in women’s cricket.

King made her ODI debut on February 3, 2022, against England in the first ODI of the 6th edition of the multi-format Women’s Ashes at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Australia comfortably won that match, marking the start of her impressive journey in the format.

Her maiden ODI wicket came on February 6, 2022, during the second ODI of the same series at Junction Oval, Melbourne. She dismissed England’s Lauren Winfield-Hill (24 off 36 balls) and finished with exceptional figures of 10-1-23-1, playing a key role in Australia’s five-wicket victory.

A Stellar Performance in the Ongoing Women’s Ashes

Australia, led by skipper Alyssa Healy, is currently hosting England for the 8th edition of the Women’s Ashes, which began with the ODI series on January 12, 2025. King showcased her skill in the first ODI at North Sydney Oval, taking 2/35 in seven overs, dismissing Amy Jones and Charlie Dean.

She built on her strong start with an incredible performance in the second ODI at Junction Oval, Melbourne. Delivering a match-winning spell of 10-0-25-4, King turned the game in Australia’s favor. Her performance was pivotal in defending a modest target of 181, helping Australia secure a thrilling 21-run victory.

Achieving the 50-Wicket Milestone

During her stellar spell in the second ODI, King achieved the milestone of 50 ODI wickets. She joined Olivia Magno (51 wickets in 42 innings) as the only Australian leg-spinners to reach this landmark. King claimed her 50th wicket by dismissing Danielle Wyatt-Hodge for a golden duck on the final ball of the 17th over. This key moment shifted momentum in Australia’s favor during the run chase.

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King was awarded Player of the Match for her outstanding contribution. Her figures of 10-0-25-4 not only helped Australia win the ODI series but also extended their lead in the Ashes to 4-0. This spell is now her career-best performance in ODIs, surpassing her previous best of 4/26 against South Africa on February 10, 2024, at North Sydney Oval.