Sophie Devine’s brave knock of 112 wasn’t enough, as Australia kicked off their ICC Women’s ODI World Cup campaign with a strong 89-run win over New Zealand at Holkar Stadium. Australia Women Cruise to 89-run victory over New Zealand Women. (PIC - IANS)

Sophie Devine’s valiant 112 went in vain as Australia began their title defence in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup with a commanding 89-run win over New Zealand at the Holkar Stadium here on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting 327, New Zealand were cruising at 218/5 before being bowled out for 237 in 43.2 overs, with Sophie’s 112 off 112 balls, laced with 12 fours and three sixes, being the lone highlight for the White Ferns. During the course of her innings, she became the fourth woman to bring up 4,000 women’s ODI runs for New Zealand.

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