Australia’s ever-reliable batter Beth Mooney once again proved why she’s regarded as one of the most composed and adaptable cricketers in the women’s game. In what can only be described as a rescue act of the highest class, Mooney produced a stunning 109 off 114 balls, steering Australia from the depths of 76/7 in the 24th over to a competitive total of 221/9 against Pakistan at the Women’s World Cup 2025.
When Australia’s top order crumbled under relentless pressure and sharp bowling, Mooney stood tall; calm, unflustered, and determined. Wickets kept tumbling at the other end, but she anchored the innings with a combination of elegance and grit, crafting an innings that showcased her technical brilliance and mental strength.
The turning point came through her remarkable partnership with Alana King, as the pair stitched together a 106-run stand for the ninth wicket- a partnership that not only rescued Australia but shifted the momentum entirely. Their counterattack in the final overs saw Australia amass 50 runs in the last four overs, transforming what looked like a modest total into one that suddenly seemed defendable.
Mooney’s knock was a masterclass in adaptability, measured early, then merciless late. Her picture-perfect cover drives, sweeps, and deft cuts lit up the innings, each shot reflecting her exceptional control on a turning wicket.
As Australia slipped to 76/7, Pakistan sensed a famous collapse. But Mooney, using all her experience, built her innings brick by brick, rotating strike, picking gaps, and punishing loose balls. When the time came to accelerate, she did so with poise and precision, hammering boundaries through the leg side and behind point, including a stunning pull shot followed by a crisp cut through cover that summed up her range.
Even though she was caught in the covers off the final delivery, Mooney’s job was well and truly done. Her lone-warrior innings lifted Australia from despair to dominance, leaving the opposition visibly deflated.
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