Australia Cruises to Final with Commanding Performance
Australia secured their place in the Women's Cricket World Cup 2026 final with a dominant 8-wicket victory over West Indies in the semi-final held on June 30. The defending champions chased down the target of 135 with ease, finishing at 136/2 in just 25.3 overs.
West Indies Innings: Bowled Out for 134
West Indies, after winning the toss and electing to bat, were bowled out for 134 in 38.2 overs. Only two batters reached double figures, with captain Hayley Matthews top-scoring with 42 off 68 balls. The Australian bowling attack was led by Megan Schutt, who took 3 wickets for 22 runs in her 8 overs, and Jess Jonassen, who claimed 2 for 18.
Australia's Chase: Clinical and Composed
In reply, Australia lost opener Alyssa Healy early for 12, but Beth Mooney (51 not out off 58 balls) and Meg Lanning (48 off 52) steadied the innings with a 97-run partnership. Mooney's half-century guided the team home with more than 14 overs to spare. Lanning fell just short of her fifty, caught off the bowling of Shamilia Connell.
Key Statistics and Impact
This victory extends Australia's unbeaten streak in World Cup semi-finals to 6 matches. They have now reached the final for the 8th time in the tournament's history. West Indies, who had earlier knocked out India in the group stage, could not replicate their upset form. According to captain Hayley Matthews, "We just didn't put enough runs on the board. Our bowlers tried hard, but Australia were too good."
Looking Ahead to the Final
Australia will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and South Africa in the final scheduled for July 4. The team will be aiming for their 7th World Cup title, having won the previous edition in 2022. With a balanced squad and strong form, they remain favorites to lift the trophy again.
