Australia tightened its grip on a semifinal spot at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a dominant 113-run victory over Pakistan at Headingley. A brilliant all-round display led by Ellyse Perry helped the defending champions remain unbeaten in the tournament, while Pakistan's hopes of progressing suffered another major setback.
Perry powers Australia to a massive total
After being asked to bat first, Australia recovered from an early setback to post a formidable 199/7 in 20 overs. Ellyse Perry anchored the innings with a superb 71 off 48 deliveries, striking nine fours and a six.
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Perry shared a crucial 100-run partnership with Georgia Voll, who chipped in with 40 runs, helping Australia seize control of the contest. The middle order maintained the momentum and ensured the scoring rate remained high throughout the innings.
A nightmare in Leeds for Pakistan Women. 😔🇵🇰
— #PSL2027 #IPL2027 (@HomeCricInfo) June 24, 2026
Australia post 199/7, then bundle Pakistan out for just 86 – a 113-run demolition. pic.twitter.com/ElnIlDQTPW
Despite claiming a few late wickets, Pakistan's bowlers struggled to contain Australia's aggressive approach as the five-time champions finished just one run short of the 200-mark.
Pakistan crumble under pressure
Chasing a daunting target, Pakistan never found any rhythm with the bat. Muneeba Ali offered brief resistance with a 32-run knock, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.
Australia's bowlers kept the pressure on from the outset, while Pakistan's innings was further derailed by poor running between the wickets and multiple run-outs. The chase ended disappointingly as Pakistan were bundled out for just 86 in 13.4 overs.
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Australia's bowling effort was a collective one, with Sophie Molineux, Kim Garth, Annabel Sutherland and Perry all making valuable contributions. Perry completed a memorable all-round performance by claiming two wickets.
The emphatic win significantly boosted Australia's net run rate and strengthened its position in the race for the semifinals. For Pakistan, a fourth consecutive defeat left the team staring at an early exit, with qualification hopes now hanging by a thread.
