Healy 113 powers Australia to 10-wicket win into World Cup semis

Australia captain Alyssa Healy struck an unbeaten 113 to lead her side to a 10 wicket win over Bangladesh on Thursday in Visakhapatnam, completing a 202 without loss in 24.5 overs as the holders chased a target of 199. The victory secured Australia a place in the semifinals of the ICC Women’s World Cup and extended their run to four wins from five matches in the group stage.

Bangladesh were restricted to 198 for nine in their 50 overs after opting to bat, with Rubya Haider making 44 and Sobhana Mostary an unbeaten 66. Despite those contributions, Australia’s spin attack kept the total modest. Legspinner Alana King produced an economical spell of 2 for 18 and was named player of the match. Georgia Wareham and Ashleigh Gardner also took two wickets apiece, while Annabel Sutherland added two to move to 13 tournament wickets, reinforcing the strength of Australia’s bowling unit in middle overs. Fast bowler Darcie Brown recorded the tournament’s quickest deliveries but finished with expensive figures of 0 for 52 from nine overs.

The match was notable for contrasting displays by Australia. The batting performance was dominant. Healy reached her hundred off 73 balls en route to 113...