Australia Dominate New Zealand in T20 Opener as Beth Mooney Shines with Unbeaten 75

Australia’s Commanding Victory Over New Zealand

In a dominant display, Australia secured an emphatic eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the first T20 match at Eden Park, Auckland. The victory was spearheaded by a sensational unbeaten 75 off 42 balls from Beth Mooney, who marked her 200th international appearance in style.

Record-Breaking Opening Stand

Mooney and Georgia Voll (56 off 29 balls) set the tone early with a blistering 123-run partnership, the highest for Australia in Women’s T20Is. The pair smashed 77 runs inside the powerplay, setting a new national record. Their aggressive batting demoralized New Zealand's bowlers, with Mooney striking nine fours and two sixes.

New Zealand’s Struggles with the Bat

Earlier, New Zealand posted 137-2 after opting to bat first. Amelia Kerr (51 off 46) and Suzie Bates (39 off 36) anchored the innings with a 90-run stand, but the total proved insufficient against Australia’s formidable batting lineup.

Injury Concerns for Australia

Australia’s only concern came when Ashleigh Gardner exited the field after sustaining a finger injury while attempting a caught-and-bowled chance. Scans will determine her availability for the next match.

Match Summary

• Result: Australia win by 8 wickets (39 balls remaining).
• Player of the Match: Beth Mooney (75* off 42).
• Key Stat: Australia surpassed 77 runs in the powerplay, a new T20I record.

Next Fixture

Australia will aim to seal the series in the second T20 at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.