AUS-W vs NZ-W: Australia secured a commanding 65-run victory via the DLS method against New Zealand in the rain-hit second ODI at the Basin Reserve. Annabel Sutherland stole the spotlight with her unbeaten 105 from 81 balls, marking her second consecutive century. Captain Alyssa Healy, returning after injury, contributed a quick 34 off 32 balls, while Beth Mooney took over wicketkeeping duties.
Sutherland’s brilliant knock came after Australia faced challenging conditions, stabilizing the innings after a mid-order wobble. Her stellar form made her the first batter to hit back-to-back ODI centuries from No. 5, helping Australia post a formidable 291 for 7.
New Zealand’s Struggle in the Chase
Chasing an imposing target, New Zealand started brightly with debutant Bella James showcasing her power-hitting skills, including a six off Megan Schutt. However, quick dismissals derailed the chase. Suzie Bates fell early, followed by James, who departed for a brisk 27 off 33 balls.
The hosts found themselves in deep trouble at 60 for 3, with captain Sophie Devine dismissed cheaply. The rain arrived during the 31st over when New Zealand was at 122 for 5, well below the par score. The match was called off, securing Australia their 14th consecutive ODI win against their trans-Tasman rivals.
Fielding Woes and Missed Opportunities
New Zealand’s fielding lapses proved costly. Substitute fielder Jess Kerr dropped Sutherland on 26, and Molly Penfold missed a return catch when Sutherland was on 67, denying herself a maiden five-wicket haul. Despite Penfold’s career-best 4 for 46, the lack of support from other bowlers allowed Australia to dominate the backend of the innings.
The defeat also dealt a blow to New Zealand’s hopes of direct qualification for the 2025 Women’s World Cup, as they remain in sixth position on the Women’s Championship table.
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Alyssa Healy’s Impactful Return
All eyes were on Alyssa Healy, who made her international comeback as a specialist batter after recovering from injuries. She made an aggressive start, smashing boundaries early but fell for 34 after mistiming a short delivery from Penfold.
Annabel Sutherland and Ashleigh Gardner then took charge, rebuilding the innings with a crucial 50-run partnership. Gardner fell to a sharp-turning delivery from Eden Carson, but Sutherland remained unstoppable. She hammered two massive sixes off Carson and brought up her century in just 78 balls, finishing the innings with a boundary.
Australia’s victory marked another step in their recovery following the T20 World Cup disappointment and a dominant 3-0 ODI series win against India. With players like Sutherland in sublime form, Australia continues to set the benchmark in women’s cricket.