Australia's dominance in women's cricket was tested in the second T20I against New Zealand in Mackay, as they narrowly secured a 29-run victory despite a dramatic batting collapse.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia's innings was anchored by Alyssa Healy's 38 off 25 balls. However, a stunning collapse saw them lose 7 wickets for just 28 runs, with New Zealand legspinner Amelia Kerr claiming a career-best 4 for 20. Ellyse Perry's 34 proved crucial, but her bizarre run-out triggered Australia's downfall.
New Zealand's chase started cautiously, with Suzie Bates scoring a steady 34. However, Ashleigh Gardner and Annabel Sutherland combined to take 4 wickets for 34 runs, squeezing the run rate and closing out the game despite some sloppy fielding from Australia.
Healy's aggressive start set the tone for Australia's innings, but Perry struggled for timing. Healy's dismissal for 38 proved costly, as Australia's middle order crumbled. Kerr's wrong'uns proved devastating, dismissing Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, and Sophie Molineux.
New Zealand's chase was hampered by Australia's tight bowling in the powerplay. Bates broke free briefly, but her dismissal for 34 left the visitors needing a high run rate. Gardner's revenge on Kerr and Litchfield's catch to remove Bates put Australia in control.
Despite some untidy fielding, Australia's bowlers held their nerve. Maddy Green and Izzy Gaze threatened a late surge, but Sutherland's catch off Gardner sealed the victory.
Tags: #Cricket, #WomensCricket, #Australia, #NewZealand, #T20I
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