Earlier in the day, Australia produced a powerhouse performance to beat T20 World Cup hosts New Zealand by eight wickets in Auckland. Beth Mooney starred for the hosts, making a commanding undefeated 75. She guided her side home with 39 balls remaining. The delicate win keeps the world’s top-ranked team—Australia—on early course toward a historic title. They have an opportunity to claim the three-match series at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.
New Zealand started the match with a bash at the toss, winning and choosing to bat first. Opener Amelia Kerr and Suzie Bates gave New Zealand a good platform with their strong batting efforts. Kerr made 51 of 46 balls and Bates hit 39 from 36. Their 90-run partnership for the third wicket was a superb display of cricket. In that innings, they smashed a national record of 77 runs within the powerplay.
Even after New Zealand’s excellent start, Australia’s strike bowlers worked hard to stifle their opposition and limit them to a paltry total. Lea Tahuhu was the pick of the bowlers for New Zealand, removing Phoebe Litchfield for just four runs. She took the wicket of Georgia Voll, who scored her maiden T20 international fifty off just 31 balls.
Australia’s chase was long defined by a heavy opening stand between Mooney and Georgia Voll. Their partnership of 123 runs helped Australia get to the target of 138 in less than 14 overs. Mooney's consistent performance throughout the innings was complemented by Voll's quick scoring, providing a comprehensive demonstration of Australia's batting prowess.
The match was not without controversy. Ashleigh Gardner had to leave the field for medical scans after sustaining a blow to her right index finger, raising concerns for the team's upcoming matches.
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