As the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup semi-final approaches, cricket fans are on the edge of their seats for yet another clash in the storied rivalry between India and Australia. This matchup has always delivered thrilling cricket, and with Australia as the defending champions, they’re showcasing their strength and experience once again. Three standout players, Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, and Ashleigh Gardner, are particularly poised to make a significant impact in this high-stakes contest.
Alyssa Healy
Alyssa Healy embodies the fearless spirit of Australian cricket. With over 3,558 runs in 122 Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs) at an average of 36.3, she has established herself as one of the most explosive openers in the game. Her ability to perform in pressure situations has been remarkable, as evidenced by her unforgettable 170 off 138 balls in the 2022 World Cup final against England, which remains one of the best innings ever played in a tournament final.
When it comes to facing India, Healy’s track record is equally impressive. She has amassed 752 runs from 20 ODIs against them, averaging 44.23, with multiple half-centuries and centuries to her name. Her explosive starts are crucial for setting the tone early in the innings, especially against India’s formidable new-ball bowlers, Renuka Singh Thakur and Kranti Goud.
In the 2025 World Cup, Healy is in fantastic form, having scored 294 runs in just four innings, including a match-winning 142 against India and a solid 113* against Bangladesh. Having recently returned from injury, her presence is a massive boost for the team. When Healy gets going, she tends to ignite Australia’s batting lineup.
Ellyse Perry
Ellyse Perry is the heartbeat of Australian cricket and continues to impress as she enters her 16th year in the game. With a remarkable 4,427 runs at an average of 48.11 and 166 wickets at an economy rate of under 4.5 runs per over, she has rightfully earned recognition as one of the game’s most balanced and reliable players.
Her performances against India highlight her prowess: over 911 runs with an average of 45.55 and 32 wickets in ODIs. One of her most memorable performances was during the 2013 World Cup, where she claimed 3/19 despite playing with an ankle injury, an incredible testament to her grit and talent.
In this World Cup, Perry has continued to show her value under pressure, contributing crucial runs, including a vital 47* against India. Her ability to stabilise Australia’s innings or deliver decisive bowling spells makes her an essential asset in the team’s semi-final strategy.
Ashleigh Gardner
Ashleigh Gardner brings energy and excitement to Australia’s middle order. With over 1,591 runs and 111 wickets in WODIs, Gardner has established herself as one of the standout all-rounders in women’s cricket. Her striking ability, with a strike rate exceeding 110, allows her to change the game’s momentum quickly.
Against India, her contributions have often been game-changing, whether with bat or ball. This World Cup has seen Gardner shine brightly, taking 6 wickets in six matches and accumulating 265 runs at an impressive strike rate of 128, including two centuries that significantly affected the course of the matches. Her power-hitting in the later stages of the innings is particularly valuable, especially given India’s challenges against spin.
Australia’s strength lies in its collective excellence, but Healy, Perry, and Gardner have emerged as the key pillars of the team. Healy adds aggression and momentum, Perry brings balance and calm, while Gardner delivers unpredictability and firepower.
As these experienced players prepare to face India in what promises to be an electrifying semi-final, they’ll aim to channel the champion mentality that’s shaped their legacy. For India to advance, they must not only contend with an exceptional team but also with an era of greatness defined by Healy, Perry, and Gardner, all ready to showcase their skills on the grand stage once again.
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