6 Feb 2013

Australia crush NZ in women's World Cup

5:38 am on 6 February 2013

The New Zealand women's cricketers have been thrashed in their final pool match against Australia at the World Cup in India, going down by seven wickets with almost 12 overs to spare.

The result means Australia secure top spot in their group in Cuttack and head into the Super Six stage with a definite advantage, with points to be carried through to the next round.

Australia won the toss and opted to field and the White Ferns could only make 227 for six, with captain Suzie Bates' 102 off 134 balls rescuing her side after they slumped to 39 for four in the 13th over.

In reply the Southern Stars made 228 for three in the 39th over with opener Meg Lanning hitting 112.

It was Australia's third win from as many matches, ensuring they remained the only unbeaten team in the tournament.