Beth Mooney once again stole the show, being named Player of the Match for the second consecutive game as Australia secured an 82-run win over New Zealand in the second T20 of the three-match series.
In a display of unwavering consistency, Mooney led Australia to a commanding total by scoring an unbeaten 70—the highest individual score of the match. Her performance followed her stellar 75* in the opening T20, reinforcing her reputation as one of the most reliable openers in the format. In Tauranga, she crafted a typically controlled yet impactful innings off just 42 balls, setting the stage for Australia to post an imposing total of 204 for 3 in their full 20 overs.
The batting onslaught was complemented by Australia’s dominant bowling performance. New Zealand’s chase never gained momentum after losing their star batter, Suzie Bates, in the second over. The breakthrough came when Annabel Sutherland delivered a match-defining spell, taking 4 wickets for just 8 runs in 13 balls. Her incisive bowling effectively stifled the White Ferns, who struggled to build any meaningful partnership and were bowled out for a mere 122 in 16.1 overs.
As the series moves to its decisive third match, set to take place in Wellington on Wednesday, both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes clash that will ultimately decide the series winner. With Australia riding on the form of their key players and New Zealand looking to regroup and bounce back, cricket fans can expect an exhilarating contest in the final T20.
