Australia Dominate New Zealand

Australia secured a commanding 60-run victory over New Zealand in Sharjah, climbing to the top of Group A in the Women's T20 World Cup. Megan Schutt delivered an outstanding bowling performance, claiming 3-3 in 3.2 overs, as the defending champions dismantled their rivals with ease.

Both teams entered the match on the back of opening wins, and New Zealand held some hope after restricting Australia to 148-8 on a sluggish pitch. Beth Mooney top-scored with 40 from 32 balls, supported by Ellyse Perry’s 30, while New Zealand leg-spinner Amelia Kerr impressed with figures of 4-26.

Kerr also played a key role in New Zealand’s chase, contributing 29 runs, and along with Suzie Bates, took the team to 54-1 by the halfway stage. However, Bates’ dismissal by Sophie Molineux right after the drinks break triggered a collapse for the White Ferns, who lost nine wickets for just 34 runs.

Schutt’s superb bowling was complemented by Annabel Sutherland, who tore through the middle order with figures of 3-21. New Zealand were bowled out for 88 in 19.2 overs, handing Australia their 13th consecutive World Cup win, the longest streak in the tournament’s history.

Australia now sit atop Group A with four points, while New Zealand are in third place with two points. Australia’s next match will be against Pakistan in Dubai on Friday, while New Zealand face Sri Lanka in Sharjah on Saturday.

Though Australia’s bowling was as dominant as ever, their batting showed some vulnerabilities. At 109-2 in the 14th over, they were set for a huge score but stumbled in the final overs, adding only 39 more runs while losing six wickets. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine’s clever bowling changes, along with Kerr’s googlies, made it difficult for Australia’s middle order to accelerate.

Kerr’s back-to-back dismissals of Perry and Grace Harris through the gate with her googly were highlights, while Brooke Halliday’s slow full tosses went surprisingly unpunished by the Australians. Despite these minor setbacks, Australia’s relentless momentum makes them a formidable force as they continue their pursuit of a record seventh T20 World Cup title.