Mooney Rescues Australia from Potential World Cup Shock Against Pakistan

ICC Women’s World Cup, Colombo – Australia avoided what could have been one of the biggest upsets in Women’s World Cup history thanks to a masterful century from Beth Mooney, who steered the defending champions to a commanding 107-run victory over Pakistan.

The match looked set to turn into a nightmare for the Australians early on, as their batting line-up crumbled to 76-7 against Pakistan’s spinners. The world-class side, favourites to claim an eighth World Cup title, suddenly appeared vulnerable against a Pakistan team seeking their first-ever win against the reigning champions in 32 attempts. Mooney’s composed and resolute innings of 109 from 114 balls turned the tide, taking Australia from a precarious position to a competitive total of 221-9 in 50 overs.

Mooney’s Masterclass

Mooney’s innings was a blend of patience, timing, and calculated aggression. She initially steadied the innings in a 39-run partnership with bowler Kim Garth, facing 75 balls in the sweltering Colombo heat. Once the foundation was laid, Mooney forged a remarkable 106-run partnership with number 10 Alana King, who contributed an unbeaten 51 in her first international fifty. King’s late flurry of boundaries, including three sixes, pushed the Australian total beyond reach for Pakistan.

“We were in a tricky situation when I was batting. The messaging from the sideline was just about trying to get a partnership going. Pakistan bowled really well, they spun the ball and some didn’t turn, but we had to try really hard,” Mooney reflected after the game.

The 145 runs added after Georgia Wareham’s dismissal for the seventh wicket was the highest total by any team after losing seven wickets in a women’s one-day international, highlighting just how pivotal Mooney’s innings was.

Pakistan’s Strong Start

Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly left-arm spinner Nashra Sundhu and off-spinner Rameen Shamim, were exceptional. Sundhu claimed 3-37, while Shamim took 2-29, keeping the Australians under pressure for much of the innings. Analysts from CricViz even estimated that Pakistan had a 92% chance of winning when Australia were 76-7, emphasizing the magnitude of Mooney’s performance.

Captain Fatima Sana acknowledged the missed opportunity after leading her team to a strong start. “We were on top for the first 20 overs. After that, Beth Mooney played well and our girls’ energy was down. We need to improve on that. If you are on top after 20 overs, you need to stay on top until the last ball. Our bowlers can get on top. We need more batters to bat long,” she said.

Despite their spirited start, Pakistan’s batting line-up struggled to chase Australia’s total. They managed only 114 runs in 36.3 overs, with Garth taking 3-14 and the rest of the Australian bowlers maintaining disciplined lines and lengths. At 49-6, the visitors were already well behind the required run rate, and the eventual margin of defeat underscored the gap between the two sides.

Australia’s Resilience and Depth

The match highlighted Australia’s resilience and depth in both batting and bowling. While the top order faltered, the team’s lower-order batters stepped up, reminiscent of Ash Gardner’s 115 against New Zealand last week, which rescued her side from 128-5 to a total of 326. Partnerships and composure under pressure remain hallmarks of the defending champions.

Captain Alyssa Healy praised Mooney’s innings and emphasized the positives Australia could take forward.

“Two points is going through my head and we will move on. That is, hands down, one of the best innings I have seen Mooney play. Thanks to her we got ourselves on the board. We have made so many positives, so we won’t dwell on our mistakes that we made,” Healy said.

Australia now tops the World Cup standings with two wins and one washout. They face hosts India in their next match on Sunday, a crucial fixture against another title contender. The team will need contributions from their top order in addition to the lower-order resilience displayed against Pakistan.

Implications for Pakistan

For Pakistan, the defeat extends their World Cup woes, leaving them with three losses from three matches. While their spinners showcased their ability to trouble top international sides, the batting unit needs to develop depth and consistency if they hope to challenge stronger teams. Pakistan’s next match is against England in Colombo on Wednesday, October 15, offering another chance to build confidence and experience on the world stage.

Despite the loss, Pakistan’s start demonstrated potential, and with lessons learned, they can approach upcoming matches with greater clarity and focus.

Mooney’s Legacy in the Making

Beth Mooney’s innings serves as a reminder of why Australia remains the team to beat in the ICC Women’s World Cup. Her ability to absorb pressure, construct meaningful partnerships, and accelerate scoring when required exemplifies the qualities of a world-class batter. Alongside emerging talents like Alana King, Mooney has reinforced the depth and versatility of the Australian squad.

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