1st T20I
Phoebe Litchfield’s fifty has propelled Australia Women team to a 1-0 lead
New Zealand scored 143/7 in 20 overs, where as Australia scored 145/5 in 18.4 overs.
So, finally Australia beat New Zealand by 5 wickets.
Phoebe Litchfield’s brilliant 43-ball 64, studded with 11 boundaries, led Australia to a five-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first T20I at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
A vital 50-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Litchfield and Georgia Wareham proved decisive for the hosts.
Opting to bat first, New Zealand captain Suzie Bates (33) provided a promising start, but her side quickly lost Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr early in the Power Play.
New Zealand’s struggles deepened as Bradley Halliday fell soon after, followed by Bates being caught behind off Annabel Sutherland.
Maddy Green top-scored for the visitors with 35 from 33 balls, but frequent wickets hindered New Zealand’s ability to build meaningful partnerships.
Australia’s bowlers, led by skipper Alyssa Healy, were disciplined, with all six used picking up a wicket, and Leigh Kasperek’s run-out added to New Zealand’s woes.
The tourists ended with a modest total of 143 for 7 in their 20 overs.
In response, Australia encountered early setbacks, losing both openers within the Power Play.
Star all-rounders Ellyse Perry and Tahlia McGrath also fell cheaply, scoring 8 and 6 respectively.
However, Litchfield’s composed innings, combined with Wareham’s support, helped Australia chase down the target.
Litchfield hit the winning boundary off Kasperek, sealing the game with eight balls to spare.
New Zealand’s 21-year-old Molly Penfold impressed with 2 for 24, but her efforts weren’t enough to prevent Australia’s win.
Australia’s star all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner was ruled out before the toss due to a concussion sustained during fielding practice.
The teams will face off again in the second T20I on Sunday, September 22.
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