Ellyse Perry hammered 71 from 48 balls, including nine fours and a six, before bowling an over that yielded 2‑9 and two wickets. Her all‑round effort helped Australia seal a 113‑run victory over Pakistan at Headingley, extending the six‑team champions’ unbeaten streak at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

The win pushes Australia four points ahead of India, South Africa and Bangladesh, who all still have a game in hand at the top of Group A. Pakistan’s collapse hinged on three disastrous run‑outs and sluggish batting, while Sophie Molineux’s fielding machine kept the scoreline in check.

Australia’s batting, however, sparked criticism when Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner and Georgia Wareham were all dismissed for five runs or less. Perry admitted the team could have been more clinical, noting the loss of early wickets and the need for a sharper finish. The result leaves Australia firmly positioned to chase the title.

Headingley’s warm night saw Pakistan falter after three costly run‑outs, with the opposition capitalising on misfields. Australia’s bowlers, led by Molineux, claimed key wickets, while the captain’s spectacular stop of Ayesha Zafar’s drive and a decisive stumping of Mooney showcased fielding prowess. The win cements Australia’s dominance as the tournament’s top seed.