Ashleigh Gardner Leads Australia to 89-Run Win Over New Zealand in Women's World Cup Opener

Australia began their ICC Women's World Cup title defense with a commanding 89-run victory over New Zealand, highlighted by Ashleigh Gardner's standout performance. Gardner scored a rapid and career-best 115 off 83 balls, marking the third-fastest century in Women's Cricket World Cup history and the first from a batter at No. 6 or lower in the tournament. Despite New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine's valiant century of 111 runs, her team's batting lineup collapsed under disciplined bowling from Australia, including three wickets each from Sophie Molineux and Annabel Sutherland. Australia's total of 326 was bolstered by strong partnerships and quick runs from Phoebe Litchfield and others, while their bowlers efficiently restricted New Zealand to 237. Gardner's ability to perform under pressure after a mid-innings collapse was pivotal in setting a formidable target. The win sets Australia up for their next match against Sri Lanka, while New Zealand will face South Africa.