Phoebe Litchfield’s heroics lead Australia to win over New Zealand in the 1st T20I

Phoebe Litchfield delivered a stunning batting performance in the 1st T20I between Australia Women and New Zealand Women at Mackay, helping Australia secure a 5-wicket victory with 8 balls to spare. Litchfield played a match-winning knock of 64* off 43 balls, showcasing her consistency and composure under pressure. Her 11 boundaries helped Australia easily chase the target of 144, and she was rightfully named the Player of the Match for her brilliant performance.

New Zealand Women’s batting struggles to set a high target

New Zealand Women, led by Suzie Bates, posted 143/7 in their 20 overs. Bates top-scored with 33 off 27 balls, while Maddy Green contributed 35 off 33. However, their innings lacked big partnerships, with wickets falling regularly. Georgia Plimmer (11), Amelia Kerr (7) and Brooke Halliday (5) struggled to build momentum. Leigh Kasperek‘s (14) and Jess Kerr (11*) contributions helped New Zealand reach a competitive total. Australia’s bowlers, led by Megan Schutt and Sophie Molineux, kept the scoring rate under control.

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Australian bowlers keep New Zealand in check

Australia’s bowling unit performed well, restricting New Zealand to 143. Schutt was economical, taking 1 wicket for 23 runs in her 4 overs. Molineux also impressed with her 1/19 in 4 overs. Tayla Vlaeminck was a bit expensive, giving away 36 runs but picked up a crucial wicket. Georgia Wareham and Annabel Sutherland also chipped in with a wicket each. Their collective effort ensured that New Zealand couldn’t post an imposing total despite their best efforts.

Australia’s chase anchored by Phoebe Litchfield

Australia’s chase started shakily with early wickets falling. Beth Mooney (13), Alyssa Healy (17), Ellyse Perry (8) and Tahlia McGrath (6) were dismissed cheaply, putting pressure on the team. However, Litchfield stood firm, anchoring the innings with a fluent 64* off 43 balls. Wareham provided valuable support with 26 off 20 before being dismissed. Litchfield’s remarkable stroke play and calm approach guided Australia to victory, with Sutherland (4*) hitting the winning runs.

Australia defeated New Zealand by 5 wickets in the first T20I 🏏#women #cricket #AUSvNZ #phobelitchfield #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/F5CEKzBURR

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) September 19, 2024

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.