AUS W vs SA W Match Preview: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 – 25 October 2025

Match Details

• Date: Saturday, 25th October 2025
• Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
• Time: 10:30 AM GMT | 03:00 PM IST | 09:30 AM BST
• Series: ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

Team Form and Momentum

Australia Women (AUSW)

Australia enters this match as the leaders of the tournament, having demonstrated clinical efficiency in their recent encounters. Their 8-wicket win over England in their previous game was a masterclass in chasing, led by Ash Gardner's explosive 104 off 73 balls. With a balanced lineup and a strong all-round performance, Australia is in prime position to continue their dominance.

Key Strengths:

• Batting Powerhouse: Beth Mooney, Alyssa Healy, and Ash Gardner form a dangerous opening trio.
• World-Class All-Rounders: Annabel Sutherland and Kim Garth provide crucial support with both bat and ball.
• Reliable Bowling Attack: Megan Schutt, Sophie Molineux, and Alana King offer variety and control.

South Africa Women (SAW)

South Africa has shown signs of resurgence, having defeated Pakistan by 150 runs in their last match. Laura Wolvaardt continues to be their anchor at the top with her consistent run-scoring, while Nadine de Klerk and Marizanne Kapp provide all-round contributions. However, they need to prove their ability to compete with the tournament leaders.

Key Strengths:

• Top-Order Stability: Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits have been in good form.
• All-Rounder Depth: Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, and Chloe Tryon offer balance.
• Spin Threat: With players like Nonkululeko Mlaba, South Africa can exploit turning tracks.

Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)

• Australia: 4 wins
• South Africa: 1 win

Australia holds a clear advantage in their recent encounters, with their depth and quality shining through in tight contests.

Players to Watch

Australia Women

• Annabel Sutherland: A match-winner with both bat and ball, she was instrumental in Australia’s win over England, scoring 98* and taking 3 wickets.
• Ash Gardner: In red-hot form with a 104 in her last game and consistent with the ball.
• Alyssa Healy: A dynamic opener with the ability to accelerate the innings.
• Sophie Molineux: Provides crucial spin support with her aggressive approach and ability to break partnerships.

South Africa Women

• Laura Wolvaardt: Top scorer for her team, with 270 runs in the tournament.
• Nadine de Klerk: A key all-rounder with 5 wickets and 165 runs at a strike rate of 150.
• Marizanne Kapp: A versatile option with both bat and ball, known for her death-overs pressure.
• Chloe Tryon: A dangerous finisher and useful medium-pacer.

Venue and Pitch Report: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore

• Pitch Type: Batting-friendly with a true bounce and short boundaries.
• Average 1st Innings Score (2020–2025): 272.3
• Win Percentages:
  • Batting First: 50%
  • Batting Second: 50%
• Bowling Conditions: Medium-paced and slightly helpful to spin, especially in the later stages of the innings.

Both teams are likely to prefer batting first, but the nature of the pitch could lead to high-scoring chases.

Match Prediction and Key Factors

Prediction:
This match is expected to be a high-scoring thriller. Australia’s clinical chasing ability and superior depth could give them the edge, but South Africa’s improved form and attacking intent make them a dangerous opponent. The toss could be pivotal, with the winner choosing to bat and setting a daunting target.

Key Factors to Watch:

• Annabel Sutherland vs Laura Wolvaardt: A head-to-head battle that could define the match.
• Death Overs Pressure: Both teams have strong finishers; the team that can handle the final 10 overs better could win.
• Injuries and Form: Any last-minute changes due to fitness or form could tip the balance.

Final Verdict

Australia is the slight favorite in this clash, given their experience and consistency in the tournament. However, South Africa, with their recent momentum and explosive batting, cannot be underestimated. A nail-biting encounter is on the cards at Holkar Stadium on 25 October 2025.

Predicted Winner: Australia Women
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