India's legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar was furious as he learned about two Australian women cricketers facing harassment in Indore during the ongoing Women's ODI World Cup 2025. Cricket Australia in an official statement said that the two cricketers were touched inappropriately by a person on motorcycle as they were walking to a cafe in Indore. Gavaskar believes that incidents like these tarnish the image of the nation and the accused should face severe punishment.
“Yes, I think because we are famous for Atithi Devo Bhava, to hear of this is very, very sad,” Gavaskar told India Today. “It is, without question, a heinous incident. The law will take its course, but I do hope that the guilty person is punished severely – you lock them up and throw away the key. That’s the only way, I think. Just lock him up and throw the keys away.”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia condemned the unfortunate incident. He thanked Madhya Pradesh police for arresting the accused and ensured that the security will be tightened.
“It is a very condemnable but stray incident. India is known for its hospitality and care. We have zero tolerance for such incidents. We appreciate the Madhya Pradesh Police for their prompt action to nab the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the culprit. We assure to revisit our safety protocols if required to further tighten the security,” Saikia said.
King’s record-breaking 7-fer
Meanwhile, Australia continued their unbeaten run in the tournament. On October 25 at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, Alana King claimed a seven-wicket haul to bowl out South Africa for 97 in 24 overs. This is the first time a bowler has registered a seven-fer in a World Cup match. She broke the 43-year-old record held by New Zealand's Jackie Lord who took six wickets for 10 runs against India in 1982 edition of the ODI World Cup.
In the absence of an injured Alyssa Healy, Australia chased down the target in the 17th over with seven wickets in hand.
Australia sweat over Healy’s availability
Australia will go up against hosts India in at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai on October 30 in the semifinal. There is a big question mark over captain Healy’s availability. She faces a race against time to regain full fitness ahead of the knockout clash.