In a historic T20I showdown, Australia’s Alana King delivered a match-winning performance, taking 7-18 to dismantle South Africa and secure a dominant series victory. The third T20I at Manuka Oval saw King become the first Australian woman to claim seven wickets in a T20I, cementing her place in cricket history.
King’s Record-Breaking Spell
King’s fiery spell left South Africa reeling as she exploited a turning pitch with precision. Her victims included top-order batters Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, and Marizanne Kapp, who fell to her lethal variations. The 7-18 figures are now the second-best in women’s T20Is, trailing only Anjali Chand’s 6-0 for Nepal.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet,” King admitted post-match. “I stuck to my strengths, and the team’s support was incredible.”
Australia’s All-Round Dominance
Batting first, Australia posted 142-6, with Alyssa Healy (46), Beth Mooney (30), and Grace Harris (25) leading the charge. While not a mammoth total, King and Darcie Brown (2-14) ensured South Africa collapsed for just 72—their second-lowest T20I score against Australia.
Series Implications
Australia reinforces its T20I supremacy, with King’s emergence adding depth to their spin attack ahead of the T20 World Cup. South Africa, despite early fight, faltered in the decider. Captain Sune Luus conceded, “We were outplayed—consistency is key.”
Records and Reactions
King’s 7-18 surpassed Megan Schutt’s 4-10 as Australia’s best T20I figures. Cricket Australia dubbed it “one of the greatest spells in women’s cricket,” while fans and pundits flooded social media with praise.
What’s Next?
Australia eyes upcoming clashes with England, while South Africa regroups. King’s heroics have set a new benchmark—can she repeat the feat?
