Beth Mooney, Alana King create history in women's ODI against Pakistan
In a remarkable display of resilience, Beth Mooney and Alana King combined to produce a record-breaking ninth-wicket partnership during Australia’s Women’s ODI World Cup match against Pakistan in Colombo on October 8. The duo added an impressive 106 runs off 97 balls, marking the highest-ever ninth-wicket partnership in Women’s ODI history.
The previous record was held by Ashleigh Gardner and Kim Garth, who put together 77 runs for the ninth wicket in a match against South Africa in North Sydney in 2024. Meanwhile, the highest ninth-wicket partnership in a Women’s ODI World Cup match had stood at 66 runs, set by Kim Price and Yulandi van der Merwe against India in 2000. Mooney and King’s stand shattered both these records, putting their names firmly in the history books.
Mooney, batting at number four, anchored the innings with a composed 109 runs from 114 balls. Her innings included 11 boundaries, showcasing her ability to steady the ship and accelerate when needed. King, primarily known for her bowling, played a powerful supporting role with an unbeaten 51 off 49 balls. Her knock featured three fours and three sixes, adding crucial momentum to Australia’s total.
Australia’s comeback after 115/8
Australia found themselves in trouble early, losing eight wickets for just 115 runs in 33.5 overs. The partnership between Mooney and King rescued the team from a precarious position and helped them post a competitive total of 221 runs, which should be enough for them to secure the win. More so, because the bowlers had a phenomenal start to the match as Kim Garth picked up three wickets as Pakistan were reduced to 49/6.
King set new record
Her most valuable contribution came in partnership with lower-order batter Alana King, with whom she added 106 runs for the ninth wicket. Their stand turned the momentum completely, lifting Australia from a dire 115/8 to a competitive 221 in their 50 overs.
King, primarily known for her leg-spin, made history with the bat by becoming the first woman to score a half-century at number 10 in Women’s ODI history. Her unbeaten 51 also set a new record for the highest score by a number 10 in women’s ODIs, surpassing South Africa’s Yulandi van der Merwe’s 42* against India back in 2000.
Meanwhile, Mooney has been in stunning form in ODI cricket lately. She scored two centuries and the same number of half-centuries in the last six innings, which proves her extraordinary form, which will be vital for the team in the remainder of the tournament.
