Australia continued their dominant run in the ICC Women’s World Cup with a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Indore on Saturday. Leg-spinner Alana King produced a sensational spell, taking 7 for 18, to dismantle South Africa for just 97. With this win, Australia extended their unbeaten streak to 15 matches and sealed their spot in the semifinal against India, to be played in Navi Mumbai.
Speaking after the match, Australia’s head coach Shelley Nitschke was full of praise for King’s performance and consistency. “That was a special performance from Kingy. Really happy for her to do that, obviously in a World Cup,” said Nitschke.
Reflecting on King’s growth, Nitschke highlighted her evolution as a reliable match-winner. “She’s been fantastic. She’s a big-game player. When she’s up and about, she brings a lot of energy to the team. She burst onto the scene a couple of years ago, had a really strong Ashes series for us, and has continued to perform in this format. It’s fantastic to see her still performing in the middle of a World Cup and in a big game.”
When asked about the tactical decision to introduce King from a different end compared to the England match, Nitschke emphasized that the team’s choices depend on the flow of the game. “It just depends on how the game plays out. She doesn’t usually bowl in the powerplay, so once we get through that phase, it’s about matchups and the stage of the game. Team definitely pulled the right string, bringing Alana on from the other end she bowled against England. There’s no exact science to it, it depends on the situation of the game.”
Despite South Africa’s strong record against leg-spin in recent years, Nitschke said the team believed the timing was right to attack through the middle overs.
“We know her best time to bowl is through the middle overs. After getting through the powerplay with the seamers, the discussion between T-Mac (Tahlia McGrath) and Ash (Gardner) was about who was the best person to bring on. They felt we were in a position to attack, and King is a really attacking bowler for us. The timing was right to inject her into the game.”
Despite the commanding win, Nitschke noted that the team continues to review performances critically. “Every game we play, we review with a critical eye and make sure we are pointing out areas that we can continue to improve. It would have been a lot nice not losing any wickets (chasing 98 against South Africa), but there’s always something… We have a big challenge ahead.”
On Australia consistently having quality leg-spinners, Nitschke said, “I think all our leg-spinners took it up when Warnie (Shane Warne) was around, they’re all coming through now,” she said with a smile. “’We are blessed. Georgia Wareham didn’t get an opportunity with the ball (vs South Africa), but we certainly know what she’s capable of.
Providing an update on captain Alyssa Healy, who missed the match due to injury, Nitschke said, “She wasn’t quite up to it (for the South Africa game), but she’ll continue to be assessed. We’re really hopeful for the semi. There are still a few days to play out before that, we’re hopeful, she will continue to be assessed the closer we get to that.”
Australia’s win equaled their own record of 15 consecutive victories, reflecting their unmatched consistency. Nitschke credited the team’s culture and mindset.
“I mentioned before about how we review games. The players are always challenging themselves and wanting to get better. We try to keep things consistent but fresh at the same time. There’s a culture of wanting to continually improve, and that’s something we pride ourselves on.”
With their confidence sky-high and their combination clicking perfectly, Australia now turns their attention to a blockbuster semi-final clash against India in Navi Mumbai, a contest that promises high intensity and world-class cricket.
Loves all things female cricket