Australia Women wrapped up the series in style by securing a 5-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in the 3rd T20I at Allan Border Field. With this win, Australia completed a clean sweep of the New Zealand Women in the three-match T20I series. Chasing 147, the Aussies overcame a spirited performance from the visitors to claim victory with five wickets and five balls to spare.

New Zealand post challenging total

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand Women posted a competitive total of 146/6 in their 20 overs. Georgia Plimmer anchored the innings with a well-compiled 53 off 48 balls, which included five boundaries and a six. Amelia Kerr added crucial support with a steady 40 off 36 balls, while Suzie Bates contributed a quick 19 at the top. Despite the loss of wickets, New Zealand maintained a decent scoring rate throughout, with Maddy Green chipping in with a vital cameo of 12 runs off just 5 balls toward the end.

For Australia, Georgia Wareham was the standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 21 runs in her four overs. Annabel Sutherland also impressed, claiming 2 wickets for 23 runs. Sophie Molineux and Ashleigh Gardner picked up a wicket each as the Australian bowlers kept New Zealand in check, preventing them from crossing the 150-run mark.

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Australia’s Chase Led by Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner

In response, Australia Women started cautiously, with skipper Alyssa Healy scoring 27 runs off 29 balls to provide a steady foundation. Though Beth Mooney fell early for 6, the middle-order, led by Ellyse Perry and Gardner, guided the chase with calm and control. Perry’s 36 off 29 balls, coupled with Gardner’s 33 off 26, ensured that Australia never fell behind the required rate.

Wareham contributed a crucial 26 off just 16 balls to keep the momentum in Australia’s favor after a few quick wickets in the middle overs. The finishing touch came from Tahlia McGrath, who struck a boundary to seal the win with 6 runs off 3 balls.

New Zealand’s bowlers put up a brave fight, with Eden Carson being the pick of the lot, taking 2 wickets for 29 runs. Fran Jonas, Hannah Rowe, and Amelia also chipped in with a wicket each, but their efforts couldn’t prevent Australia from crossing the finish line.

Series whitewash for Australia

The victory handed Australia a 3-0 series win, underlining their dominance in the shortest format of the game. It was a clinical performance from the hosts, who showcased their depth in both batting and bowling throughout the series. New Zealand, despite flashes of brilliance, were outclassed in crucial moments and will be looking to regroup ahead of their next series.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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