Women's WC Preview | Australia look to maintain lossless record in final league game against South Africa

Australia has been in excellent form, dominating their recent opponents with a series of commanding victories. Their combination of solid batting, led by the ever-reliable Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney, along with a tight bowling attack featuring Megan Schutt, has proven to be formidable. The team’s ability to chase down targets and their all-round strength have made them one of the favorites for this match. Their latest victory, a six-wicket win over England, showed just how versatile they are, with key players stepping up in both batting and bowling departments.

South Africa, while having faced some challenges along the way, has been steadily building confidence too. With recent dominant performances, including a 10-wicket win over Sri Lanka and a 150-run victory against Pakistan, they are showing they can compete at the highest level. Led by captain Laura Wolvaardt and featuring the explosive all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, South Africa will be looking to capitalize on their momentum and challenge Australia’s strengths.

Both teams come into this match full of confidence, and with key players like Wolvaardt, Kapp, and Klaas for South Africa, and Healy, Mooney, and Schutt for Australia, the contest is set to be a thrilling encounter.

Form Guide

Australia are yet to lose a game this World Cup, recovering from tricky positions against Pakistan, India, and England to rise to the top of the table with 11 points from five wins and a no-result against Sri Lanka. The team has been exceptional, with Healy leading the way, while Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, and Tahlia McGrath continue to contribute heavily with the bat. The all-round strength of Ashleigh Gardner and the pace bowling of Megan Schutt have been instrumental in their success.

South Africa has been in solid form, securing victories in their last four matches to be placed second in the table with 10 points after six games. With leadership from Laura Wolvaardt and strong contributions from Marizanne Kapp, they have been able to consistently challenge their opponents. The team's bowling attack, spearheaded by Masabata Klaas and Ayabonga Khaka, has shown improvement, taking key wickets at critical moments.

Australia Women: W W W W NR

South Africa Women: W W W W W

Head-to-Head

Australia has an overwhelming head-to-head record against South Africa, winning 16 of the 17 matches they’ve played. However, the Proteas will take confidence from the fact that their only win came last year itself and that too Down Under as they bowled out the Aussies for 149 in pursuit of 230 in a rain-curtailed encounter.

Australia 16 - 1 South Africa

Pitch and Weather

The pitch at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore typically favors batting, particularly in the early stages of the game. Batters can expect good bounce and consistency, which should offer plenty of scoring opportunities. As the match progresses, the pitch may slow down slightly, making it easier for spinners to come into play. The weather forecast for October 25 predicts hot and humid conditions with temperatures rising to 36°C. There’s a chance of light rain, but overall, conditions will remain suitable for play.

With these conditions in mind, the captain winning the toss may prefer to bowl first to take advantage of any early movement before the pitch flattens out for the second innings.

Team News

Australia will be looking to maintain their dominance with a full-strength lineup. Alyssa Healy will return to lead the team after missing the England fixture with injury, with Tahlia McGrath back to playing deputy. The bowling unit, led by Schutt, will need to keep South Africa’s aggressive batting lineup in check.

South Africa, meanwhile, will rely on their experienced players to step up. Wolvaardt and Kapp will be key in the batting department, while Klaas and Khaka will look to take early wickets and build pressure throughout the innings.

Australia (Probable XI): Alyssa Healy (c & wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Annabel Sutherland, Tahlia McGrath, Ashleigh Gardner, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt

South Africa (Probable XI): Laura Wolvaardt (c),Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Karabo Meso (wk), Chloe Tryon, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba

Broadcasting Platforms

The match will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports for viewers in India. International audiences can watch the game on ESPN CricInfo and ICC.tv, with live updates, commentary, and highlights available across various digital platforms.