Australia cruised into the semi-finals of the Women’s ODI World Cup after thrashing Bangladesh by 10 wickets in Visakhapatnam. The defending champions chased down a modest target of 199 without losing a wicket, reaching the finish line with 25.1 overs to spare.
With four wins and one no-result, Australia climbed to the top of the table with nine points, becoming the first side to book a spot in the knockout stage. Bangladesh, meanwhile, are facing elimination after four consecutive defeats.
The seven-time world champions have been ruthless throughout the tournament, even chasing 330 against India to set a new world record. Against such an imposing outfit, Bangladesh’s total of 198 after opting to bat never looked competitive.
Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty chose to bat first, and the innings began steadily as the Tigresses reached 70 for 1. But another familiar collapse followed, leaving the side bundled out for 198. Rubaiya Haider and Sobhana Mostary provided the only resistance. Rubaiya scored 44 at the top of the order, while Sobhana remained unbeaten on 66 — her highest ODI score and second career half-century — striking nine boundaries in her 80-ball innings.
Among Bangladesh’s top order, only Fargana Hoque failed to reach double figures. Rubaiya made 44, Sharmin Akhter 19, captain Nigar 12, and Sobhana 66 not out. The lower order faltered once again — Sworna Akter (7), Ritu Moni (2), Fahima Khatun (4), Rabeya Khan (6), Nishita Akter Nishi (1), and Fariha Trisna (1 not out).
Despite the Australians conceding 28 extras, including 22 wides, their bowlers never lost control. Ashleigh Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, Alana King, and Georgia Wareham claimed two wickets each, while Megan Schutt took one.
In reply, openers Alyssa Healy and Phoebe Litchfield made batting look effortless, dismantling Bangladesh’s attack with ease. Healy brought up her seventh ODI century and second of the tournament, off just 73 balls, remaining unbeaten on 113. Litchfield supported her with 84 not out, as Australia sealed a crushing victory to advance confidently into the semi-finals.
