Beth Mooney’s masterful century rescued Australia from one of many greatest shocks in World Cup historical past and arrange an finally resounding 107-run victory over Pakistan.

The defending champions have been floundering at 76-7 in opposition to Pakistan’s spinners however the unflappable Mooney hit 109 to tug her facet to 221-9, turning a day that would have been about uncovered Australian frailties into a transparent instance of why they’re big favourites to safe an eighth title.

The left-hander was the most recent member of Australia’s vaunted batting line-up to step up, repelling Pakistan as they sensed essentially the most vital victory of their historical past.

Mooney initially halted the tumble of wickets in a affected person partnership of 39 from 75 balls with bowler Kim Garth within the Colombo warmth after which placed on 106 from 97 balls with quantity 10 Alana King.

King made 51 not out – her first worldwide fifty – because the pair steered Australia away from hazard after which struck a flurry of boundaries to take 59 runs from the final 5 overs.

Confronted with a goal far larger than that they had at one time anticipated and one all the time prone to be past their restricted line-up, Pakistan crumbled to 49-6 earlier than resisting for 36.3 overs to be 114 all out.

They now have three defeats from three at this World Cup whereas Australia go prime of the standings with a second win to go along with a washout.

England and India have additionally made unbeaten begins to this match but it surely seems certainly one of Australia’s world-class abilities will all the time ship when wanted.