Australia continued their dominant run at the Women’s T20 World Cup with a crushing 98-run win over the Netherlands on Saturday. The defending champions posted 219/6, equalling the highest total in the tournament’s history and crossing the 200-run mark in a Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time.Beth Mooney led the charge with a blistering 74 off 42 balls before retiring hurt because of a stiff back. However, the Australian opener later eased concerns over her fitness.“I’m all good, just precautionary,” Mooney said. “Probably just not used to all the bus travel we’ve been doing.”Ash Gardner, returning from an ankle injury, chipped in with 58, while Georgia Wareham‘s quickfire 41 off 18 balls helped Australia finish strongly.With Mooney leaving the field and regular backup wicketkeeper Phoebe Litchfield unavailable due to a quad injury, Georgia Voll took over the gloves and impressed behind the stumps. Australia then backed up their batting effort with a disciplined bowling display, restricting the Netherlands to 121/3.Although the Dutch side never looked likely to chase down 220, captain Babette de Leede and Sterre Kalis put up a brave fight with a 96-run partnership. Kalis scored 44, while de Leede remained unbeaten on 56 in her 100th T20 appearance.
Netherlands captain proud despite defeat
De Leede, who reached the milestone alongside Robine Rijke, said facing Australia was a valuable experience for her side.“This is a massive moment for us,” de Leede said. “Australia are a quality team (so) to learn from them, see how they go about their innings, it’s just incredible.”The victory gave Australia their third straight win in the tournament and further strengthened their position in the standings.
