Beth Mooney's Masterclass Rescues Australia from Collapse Against Pakistan

Beth Mooney's Masterclass Rescues Australia from Collapse Against Pakistan

In one of the most remarkable rescue acts in Women's World Cup history, Beth Mooney struck a masterful century to lift Australia from the brink of collapse at 76 for 7 to a competitive 221 for 9 against Pakistan. Partnering with Alana King for a record-breaking ninth-wicket stand of 106 runs, Mooney not only saved her team but also rewrote the history books.

Australia were in danger of posting their lowest total against Pakistan (previously 175) and one of their worst in World Cup history, before Mooney’s 109 and King’s unbeaten 51 steered them to safety on a spinning Colombo track.

King’s knock was equally vital — her maiden ODI half-century and the highest score ever by a No. 10 batter in women's ODIs. Their partnership is now the highest for the ninth wicket or lower in women’s ODI history.

Spin Strangles Australia Early

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana’s bold decision to bowl first under hot and humid conditions paid off early. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, introduced in the fifth over, immediately found sharp turn and dismissed Alyssa Healy in her second over. Sana herself removed Phoebe Litchfield in the same over, capitalising on pressure built with 12 consecutive dot balls.

What followed was a spin stranglehold, led by Nashra Sandhu, who became Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in ODI World Cups, surpassing Sana Mir. Sandhu dismissed Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland in successive overs, while Rameen Shamim removed Ash Gardner and Georgia Wareham as Australia crumbled to 76 for 7.

At that point, a sub-150 total seemed likely. But Mooney had other ideas.

Mooney Stands Tall Amid the Ruins

Demonstrating poise and adaptability, Mooney expertly moved around the crease and played late to counter the turn and bounce. She struck 11 fours in her knock, rotated the strike masterfully — running 44 singles, nine twos, and a three — and ensured Australia kept the scoreboard ticking despite the early damage.

She received some support from Kim Garth (21), with whom she added a stabilising eighth-wicket stand. However, it was her partnership with Alana King that changed the course of the innings. King, calm under pressure, played risk-free cricket and allowed Mooney to take control.

Mooney brought up her 20th ODI half-century off 63 balls, and continued to grind towards three figures. She survived a crucial lbw decision on 85 — reviewed successfully — and reached her hundred with a single off Fatima Sana.

Australia’s Final Flourish

With the foundation laid, the pair launched a late assault. Australia scored 81 runs in the final 10 overs, including 53 in the last four, largely targeting Diana Baig, who had a tough outing, conceding 74 runs in her 10 overs. Mooney smashed two sixes off Sana and two more boundaries before being dismissed on the final ball of the innings.

King remained unbeaten on 51 from 48 balls — a historic and invaluable contribution from the lower order.

Despite Pakistan’s early dominance, their limited bowling options — just five used in the match — were stretched as Australia fought back. While Sandhu (3 for 37) and her fellow spinners impressed, Pakistan couldn’t finish the job.

Score Summary

Australia 221 for 9 in 50 overs

  • Beth Mooney 109 (11x4)

  • Alana King 51*

  • Nashra Sandhu 3-37

  • Rameen Shamim 2-29

  • Sadia Iqbal 1-26

This gritty comeback from Australia, spearheaded by Mooney and King, sets up an intriguing contest as Pakistan prepare to chase under pressure.