Gardner’s ton helps Australia to 326 in CWC25 clash

Ashleigh Gardner rose to the occasion against new Zealand with her maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 century at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.

Gardner, who scored 115 of 83 balls, steered Australia past the 300 mark after a shaky start against New Zealand with her second ODI ton which arrived at a crucial stage when wickets were tumbling regularly. The defending champions eventually closed their innings with 326 runs on the board.

Earlier, New Zealand had Australia reeling thanks to Leah Tahuhu, who struck thrice. She dismissed Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney before removing Tahlia McGrath, breaking a 64-run partnership with Gardner. Amelia Kerr added to the pressure, claiming the wickets of Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield.

Litchfield’s wicket was a milestone moment for Kerr, as it brought up her 100th in Women’s ODIs, making her only the third New Zealand bowler to reach the landmark.

Earlier, playing in her first Cricket World Cup, Bree Illing removed Australia captain Alyssa Healy early on in New Zealand's opening game of the tournament.

Looking to drive the ball through the covers against the left-arm pacer, Healy would find Suzie Bates inside the circle as the White Ferns opened their account in the powerplay.

Earlier, Healy had won the toss and elected to bat first. The two teams are squaring up for the first-ever international women’s cricket fixture at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.

Defending champions Australia arrive into the competition as one of the prime contenders for the title.

Having clinched the competitions seven times, Australia will eye their eighth trophy in India and Sri Lanka.

Earlier, Healy had won the toss and elected to bat first. The two teams are squaring up for the first-ever international women’s cricket fixture at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.

Defending champions Australia arrive into the competition as one of the prime contenders for the title.

Having clinched the competitions seven times, Australia will eye their eighth trophy in India and Sri Lanka.

AUSTRALIA WOMEN: Alyssa Healy (C/WK), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, and Darcie Brown.

NEW ZEALAND WOMEN: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (C), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Izzy Gaze (WK), Jess Kerr, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, and Bree Illing.