Australia Clinch Victory Against New Zealand in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: India's Semi-Final Dreams Nearing End

The defending champions Australia extended their unbeaten streak in the Women’s T20 World Cup with a convincing win over New Zealand in Sharjah on Tuesday. The victory has injected a new level of excitement into the Group A standings, with only the top two teams set to progress to the semi-finals. Sitting comfortably at the top of the table with two wins from two matches, Australia is closely followed by Pakistan in second place, with New Zealand trailing behind in third. Meanwhile, India finds themselves in fourth place after a loss to New Zealand but a victory against Pakistan. In order to boost their net run-rate and stay in the race for a semi-final spot, India must secure a significant win against Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

Following their match against Sri Lanka, India’s next goal will be to defeat Australia in their final Group A match. Even if they fall short, it’s crucial for them to keep the game competitive to maintain a higher net run-rate compared to their rivals. Should India lose to Australia, they will need New Zealand and Pakistan to each lose another match. In that scenario, the team with the best run-rate would secure a spot in the semi-finals.

Australia’s batters set up a solid foundation for their experienced bowling attack, posting a defendable total on a sluggish wicket to secure a convincing 60-run victory over New Zealand in the Women’s T20 World Cup on Tuesday. Opener Beth Mooney led the charge with a 32-ball 40, while Ellyse Perry added a valuable 30 off 24 balls. Alyssa Healy also contributed with a quick 26 off 20 deliveries, helping Australia reach a competitive score of 148 for eight.

In response, New Zealand were bowled out for just 88 runs in 19.2 overs, as Megan Schutt delivered a standout performance with figures of 3/3 in 3.2 overs. Annabel Sutherland (3/21) and Sophie Molineux (2/15) also played crucial roles in dismantling the New Zealand batting lineup, securing a dominant win for Australia.

With this result, Australia secured the top spot in Group A, winning both of their matches so far. Opting to bat first, the six-time champions got off to a solid start as Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney built a 41-run partnership for the first wicket in just 5.2 overs.

Healy was initially given out lbw after being struck on the pad by left-arm spinner Fran Jonas. However, after some convincing from Mooney, she opted for a review, which turned out to be the right decision, as the on-field umpire’s call was overturned.

Healy responded with two boundaries and, in the next over, lofted Eden Carson over the extra cover region for another four. New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr, who took 4/26, also showcased her fielding prowess with a brilliant running catch to dismiss Phoebe Litchfield (18 off 18).