Defending champions Australia have asserted their dominance in Group A of the Women’s T20 World Cup following an impressive 60-run victory over New Zealand in Sharjah. The six-time champions, viewed as tournament favorites, built on their initial success against Sri Lanka, showcasing their formidable skills in this latest match.
Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Australia posted a competitive total of 148-8, before bundling out New Zealand for just 88 runs in the final over. Highlighting Australia’s prowess, medium pacer Megan Schutt delivered a remarkable performance, claiming the Player of the Match title with figures of 3-3, making her the highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history with 44 wickets in 26 matches.
“We could have been smarter with the bat at the end, but our bowling was spot on. I’m thrilled with that,” said Australia captain Alyssa Healy, praising her entire bowling attack for their exceptional effort.
Australia set the pace early with aggressive batting, led by Healy’s 26 runs off 20 balls, supported by Beth Mooney’s 40 runs and Ellyse Perry’s 30 runs. New Zealand’s leg-spinner Amelia Kerr stood out with the ball, taking 4-26 and achieving crucial wickets but ultimately could not prevent her team’s defeat.
Following the loss, New Zealand’s White Ferns will look to recover in a pivotal match against Sri Lanka, while Australia, now sitting atop Group A with four points and a firm grip on a semi-final spot, prepares to face Pakistan in a crucial clash on Friday.
As the tournament progresses, Scotland aims for their first win against South Africa in Group B, and India seeks to strengthen their semi-final ambitions against Sri Lanka. Stay tuned for live coverage of all matches in the Women’s T20 World Cup as the excitement unfolds.
