Australia has claimed their T20I series with New Zealand following a second-consecutive win.
Chasing 143 for victory, New Zealand could only manage 7-113 from their 20 overs.
The final T20I of the series will be held on Tuesday in Brisbane.
Australia have slammed the brakes on New Zealand to claim their T20 series with a game in hand and inflict a ninth-straight loss on the Kiwis in the format.
New Zealand will have been optimistic they could end their run of defeats after triggering a collapse of 7-28 to bowl the hosts out for 142 in the 20th over in Mackay on Sunday night.
But the visitors could only muster 7-113 from their 20 overs, unable to move up the gears after a steady, wicketless first six overs of their chase.
The 29-run victory followed the world champion's comfortable five-wicket win in the first game on Thursday.
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Ashleigh Gardner (3-16 from four overs) enjoyed a successful return after she missed the series-opening win, while captain Alyssa Healy's (38 off 25) bright start proved decisive.
Amelia Kerr's career-best spell (4-20) had given New Zealand hope after Healy and Ellyse Perry (34 off 33) looked comfortable, the spinner knocking over Gardner and then taking three wickets in her final over.
Phoebe Litchfield and Sophie Molineux took sharp catches to dismiss key pair Suzie Bates (34 off 34) and Sophie Devin (four off 10) and send Australia towards victory.
There were fumbles though. Megan Schutt dropped a sitter at point late in the game, while several run-outs went begging.
Perry's dismissal was also forgettable, the allrounder taking off for a run after being struck on the toe, only for the wicketkeeper to whip off the bails.
When you accidentally press the triangle button 😬 😬 😬 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) #AUSvNZ pic.twitter.com/yjhc0qnCNnSeptember 22, 2024
The sides will complete their series at Brisbane's Allan Border Field on Tuesday before departing for next month's World Cup in the UAE.
"Probably not the prettiest, but those are pretty important wins to prepare us for what's to come," Australian allrounder Annabel Sutherland said.
"I'm pretty proud of the group; the way they stuck together with the ball and found a way to win pretty comfortably in the end.
"We didn't quite get the total we were after but ... a win's a win."
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New Zealand's Struggles Continue
The Kiwis have now lost nine consecutive T20 matches, a concerning run of form ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The team's batting performance was particularly disappointing in the second T20I, failing to build momentum despite a steady start.
A Look Ahead: World Cup Preparations
This series served as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup in the UAE. Australia, the reigning world champions, will be looking to continue their dominance in the format. New Zealand, on the other hand, will need to find a way to turn their fortunes around if they are to make a serious challenge for the title.
A New Challenge for New Zealand
New Zealand will have a chance to rebuild their confidence in the final T20I of the series before heading to the UAE for the World Cup. The team will need to address its batting frailties and find a way to get out of its slump in form.
The Road to the World Cup
The T20 World Cup in the UAE promises to be a thrilling competition. The Australian team will be a strong contender for the title, while New Zealand will be hoping to turn the tables and make a statement on the international stage.
A Win's a Win: Sutherland's Perspective
Annabel Sutherland's post-match comments highlight the team's focus on securing wins, even if the performance wasn't flawless. This mindset will be crucial for Australia as they look to build momentum heading into the World Cup.
Australia's Dominance
This series victory is further evidence of Australia's dominance in women's cricket. The team's consistency and experience make them a formidable force on the international stage. This dominance will be a challenge for all their rivals, including New Zealand, as they look to claim the World Cup title.
The World Cup: A Stage for Redemption
The T20 World Cup in the UAE will be a crucial opportunity for both teams. For Australia, it's a chance to defend their title and further establish their position as a global power. For New Zealand, it's a chance to redeem themselves and make a statement on the international stage. The tournament promises to be a captivating showcase of talent and skill.
