Australia secures 3-0 sweep over New Zealand

Wellington

Australia completed a dominant 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in the T20I series, clinching a thrilling eight-run victory at Sky Stadium. Despite fighting knocks from Maddy Green (62 off 36) and Amelia Kerr (66 off 50), New Zealand fell short as Annabel Sutherland’s crucial 19th over sealed the match for Australia.

Opting to bowl first, New Zealand failed to capitalize on their chances, dropping Georgia Voll six times. Voll capitalized on the errors, scoring a crucial 75 off 55 balls. She built a 64-run stand with Beth Mooney (21 off 15) before Phoebe Litchfield (26 off 16) provided quick runs. Ellyse Perry (32) and Tahlia McGrath (14) ensured Australia reached a strong 180/4.

New Zealand's chase started poorly as Suzie Bates fell for seven in the first over. Early wickets left them struggling at 54/4 by the ninth over. However, Green and Kerr staged a fightback with a 99-run stand, bringing the hosts back into contention. Green smashed four sixes in seven balls, reducing the target to 28 off 15.

Just when New Zealand seemed in control, Georgia Wareham’s direct hit ran out Green. Annabel Sutherland then dismissed both Jess Kerr and Amelia Kerr, halting the chase. Injured Brooke Halliday couldn't bat, leaving New Zealand at 172/8.

Australia’s win was powered by Sutherland’s 4/35 and Megan Schutt’s 2/42. Voll’s batting heroics ensured they stayed unbeaten in the series.