Alyssa Healy’s final heroics were simply breathtaking. She, in turn, captained Australia to a record-extending sixth World Cup title, thanks largely to her knock of 142 runs in the final against India. It was her sixth One Day International (ODI) century and it couldn’t have come at a better time for the team, as they have progressed further in the tournament. Australia won a thrilling final chase down a challenging 330-run target. What a comeback – they won by three wickets!
The championship match birthright, the pitch was eerily quiet as the fall sun poured down over BC Place, Healy was all business, running drills with unrivaled focus. Our captain played out of his skin, smashing the biggest score of the whole tournament. He did it in a mere 107 balls, blasting 21 fours and three sixes in the process. This performance was especially impactful because it was Healy’s first ODI century in more than three years.
Skipper Healy made a statement with the coin toss, choosing to have India bat first after winning the toss. Her tactical call proved vital too as India racked up an imposing total. At the same time, Healy’s phenomenal batting ensured Australia was never really off course in pursuit of a comfortable victory. Completing her century off just 84 balls, she mixed aggression with guile during her entire innings.
Looking back on her race, Healy said she felt a combination of pride and relief. “To contribute heavily was great. Wish I could have stayed a little longer but the girls did the work as usual,” she said. Her leadership around the field was essential in navigating a tricky chase, highlighting further why she is ranked the world’s No. 1 ODI batter.
Even when faced with music of their kept up by the chase, Healy appeared calm under duress, which included clutch minutes late in the game. After eight overs you think, ‘What have I got myself into?’” she reminisced. She experienced the intense pressure of expectation in that judgmental, high-stakes situation. In the end, her team stood with her, strongly enough to cross the finish line—though there were some hair-raising near-fallout moments.
The personal landmark of Healy’s innings came when she belted Kim Garth over extra cover for six. That swat brought her a milestone as well—her 5000th ODI run. This award makes her legacy as one of the leading figures in women’s cricket history even more secure.
In her first interview following the match, she again addressed the importance of winning such a match. Excellent outcome! Healy said. Hunting down 330 on a 50-over game is new world for us. Let’s hope that never again means never again in this case!
