Alana King might just be the greatest Australian produced bowler since Shane Warne.
In Saturday night’s World cup match against South Africa, King took four wickets before conceding any runs.
By her fourth over she was 5-13. After six overs she was 6-16.
With nine wickets down South Africa were just looking for a triple figure score. But no.
King took her seventh wicket, in her seventth over, leaving the Proteas stranded on 97.
South Africa started in strong fashion to be 0-32 after six overs. That was until King came on to bowl.
Before her spell, the best figures in a Women’s World Cup match belonged to New Zealand’s Jackie Lord, who took 6-10 against India in 1982.
In more recent times, the best figures in a Women’s World Cup belonged to Sophie Ecclestone who took 6-36 against South Africa in 2022.
King’s effort not only shattered these records but has also etched her name into cricketing history. Her seven-wicket haul for just 18 runs is now the most economical and impactful bowling performance Australian women’s ODIs.
WHAT!!!
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 25, 2025
Barely believable figures from an immense performance
The sheer dominance she displayed, dismantling the South African batting lineup left spectators and commentators in awe.
Her performance also delivered a psychological impact. South Africa started confidently but crumbled under the relentless pressure applied by King.
King’s performance was a masterclass in leg-spin bowling – by varying her trajectory and pace she constantly challenged the batter’s judgment.
This incredible feat has undoubtedly cemented King’s reputation as a world-class bowler and a vital part of the Australian team.
Her ability to turn a match on its head draws parallels to the legendary Warne, a comparison that seems increasingly fitting.
As Australia progresses in the tournament, all eyes will be on King as spectators are eager to see what other records she might break and how many more matches she can single-handedly win for her country.
Australia lost Phoebe Litchfield and Ellyse Perry cheaply in their reply but cruised home with Georgia Voll chalking up 38 not out with injured skipper Alyssa Healy having a rest while Beth Mooney managed 42 in the perfect warm-up for Thursday’s semi-final.
Celia Freemanhttps://https://ift.tt/TVasQI6 Aussie bowler since Warne … King’s the queen of the castle after seven-wicket haul tears Proteas apart
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