Australia women cricket team solidified their dominance in the ICC T20 World Cup with a comprehensive 60-run victory over New Zealand, marking their second straight win in Group A. The six-time champions showcased their class in all departments of the game, setting a challenging target and dismantling New Zealand’s chase to top the group standings.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Australia’s top order laid the foundation for their victory. Alyssa Healy (26 off 20), Beth Mooney (40 off 32), Ellyse Perry (30 off 24), and Phoebe Litchfield (18 off 18) all contributed to a competitive total of 148/8. Despite a few hiccups in the middle order, Australia’s aggressive start ensured they set New Zealand a formidable target.
New Zealand’s Melie Kerr was the standout performer for her team, delivering a brilliant spell of 4/26. Kerr also made her mark in the field, taking a spectacular catch and later top-scoring for her side with 29. Her efforts, however, were not enough to prevent Australia from reaching a defendable score, as Kerr’s teammates struggled to match her intensity.
The White Ferns’ chase quickly unraveled against a fierce Australian bowling attack. Megan Schutt was instrumental in crippling New Zealand’s batting lineup, claiming extraordinary figures of 3/3 from her 3.2 overs. Her early breakthrough made her the leading wicket-taker in Women’s T20 World Cup history, as she bowled Georgia Plimmer (4) to set the tone for Australia’s dominance.
Kerr and Suzie Bates showed resistance during the powerplay, but New Zealand’s hopes crumbled when Kerr (29 off 31) miscued a shot off Schutt and was caught by Annabel Sutherland. Sutherland further dented New Zealand’s chase by taking two wickets in two balls, dismissing Maddy Green (1) and Isabella Gaze (0) in quick succession, finishing with figures of 3/21.
Schutt returned to close out the game, claiming her third wicket and sealing New Zealand’s fate with a 60-run defeat. Australia’s all-around performance left the White Ferns reeling, as they dropped to third in Group A with a negative net run rate.
New Zealand’s path to the semifinals now faces hurdles, with key matches against Sri Lanka and Pakistan ahead. Meanwhile, Australia sits comfortably at the top of the group, with their eyes firmly set on another World Cup title.