It was an enthralling first innings indeed, and Australia finally posted a challenging score of 148 runs. It was the highest score at that venue till then. They were also well placed at 109 for 2 at the end of the 14th over and looked to push past 160. But an amazing New Zealand comeback, driven by superb spin bowling, turned the game upside down.

Kerr’s Rampage With The Ball!

Amelia Kerr ran riot for New Zealand, even cleverly using her wrong ‘uns to tear apart Australia’s top order. Other contributions came from Rosemary Mair, while surprise package Brook Halliday bowled in some completely unorthodox fashion and still ended up with impressive figures of 2 for 16 off just 2 overs.

It has been a slow pitch, and the chase was nothing but challenging for New Zealand. They did manage to get India from 160 recently, but that was on a better wicket in Dubai. Tonight, it is a different challenge.

Milestones Achieved

Sophie Devine made history by becoming the first player to reach the 2000 runs and 100 wickets double in Women’s T20Is and remained in an elite list of cricketers who have completed this feat, which comprises names of the likes of Hayley Matthews, Nida Dar, and Ellyse Perry.

Alyssa Healy became only the eighth batter to have more than 3000 runs to her name in Women’s T20Is with a strike rate of 129.49, second to Chloe Tryon.

The first time it happened was when New Zealand itself batted first against India in Dubai, scoring 160. It will be only the second time a team will cross 125 while batting first in this tournament.

In the final overs, all eyes will be on how New Zealand chases and whether it can change the script for Australia.