Cricket Prediction | Australia Women vs New Zealand Women | New Zealand Women tour of Australia | 2nd T20 | Sept 22 – Can NZ-W Upset the Odds?

AUS-W vs NZ-W Match Analysis

In this article, we’ll preview the 2nd T20I between Australia Women and New Zealand Women, taking place on September 22, 2024, in Mackay. Australia will be hoping to bat like it’s a BBQ—lots of heat and sizzle. Australia Women, known for their dominance in women’s cricket, will look to continue their strong run with key players like Alyssa Healy and Ellyse Perry leading the charge. They boast a balanced squad with a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars. 

On the other hand, New Zealand Women, led by Captain Sophie Devine, are eager to challenge their formidable rivals. With star performers such as Amelia Kerr and Suzie Bates, they will aim to level the series and put up a spirited fight in this crucial encounter.

Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Team Preview & Squads

Australia Women

Under Coach Shelley Nitschke’s leadership, the Australian women’s cricket team has solidified its position as a powerhouse in the sport. Nitschke, a former standout all-rounder, has used her strategic insights to elevate the team, prioritizing the development of emerging talent while maintaining their dominant status in international cricket.

Captain Alyssa Healy brings not only her dynamic batting but also her world-class wicketkeeping to the team. Known for her fearless style at the crease, Healy’s aggressive play at the top of the order often sets the tone for AUS innings, while her steady leadership provides clear direction on the field.

The squad is further bolstered by star performers like Ashleigh Gardner and Darcie Brown. Gardner, a versatile all-rounder, consistently delivers with both bat and ball, her hard-hitting power and sharp off-spin often making the difference in key moments. Darcie Brown, a rising fast bowler, has quickly made a name for herself.

In the 1st T20I of the New Zealand Women’s tour of Australia in Mackay, AUS W secured a 5-wicket victory over New Zealand Women with 8 balls to spare. New Zealand posted 143/7 in their 20 overs, with key contributions from their middle order.

Australia Women Squads

Australia Women

Tahlia McGrath, Megan Schutt, Beth Mooney (WK), Georgia Wareham, Kim Garth, Alana King, Tayla Vlaeminck, Ashleigh Gardner, Darcie Brown, Grace Harris, Ellyse Perry, Annabel Sutherland, Phoebe Litchfield, Alyssa Healy (c), Sophie Molineux.

New Zealand Women

NZ Women’s cricket has soared to new heights. With a focus on discipline, sharp skills, and teamwork, Coach Ben Sawyer’s squad has become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

Captain Sophie Devine leads the team with her all-rounder capabilities, combining powerful batting with effective seam bowling. Devine’s leadership has been instrumental in steering New Zealand through challenging moments, and her ability to dominate both with bat and ball makes her one of the team’s most crucial players.

Wicketkeeper-batter Isabella Gaze has emerged as a promising talent, demonstrating sharp skills behind the stumps and contributing vital runs with the bat. Alongside her, leg-spinner Amelia Kerr has continued to deliver impressive performances, excelling with both the ball and the bat. 

In the 1st T20I of NZ W’s tour of Australia, played at Mackay on September 19, 2024, New Zealand Women posted a competitive total of 143/7 in their 20 overs. Despite a solid batting effort, Australia Women chased down the target of 144 in 18.4 overs, finishing at 145/5, securing a 5-wicket victory with 8 balls to spare.

New Zealand Women Squads

New Zealand Women

Brooke Halliday, Eden Carson, Jess Kerr, Fran Jonas, Georgia Plimmer, Leigh Kasperek, Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, Maddy Green, Lea Tahuhu, Isabella Gaze (WK), Sophie Devine (c), Molly Penfold, Rosemary Mair, Hannah Rowe.

AUS-W vs NZ-W Outfield Report

Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay

The Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay, Queensland, offers a well-balanced pitch, catering to both batters and bowlers. Its flat surface usually provides a consistent pace and bounce, which benefits stroke-makers, especially during the initial overs of a T20 match.

Mackay typically experiences warm weather, often accompanied by high humidity, which can influence swing and seam movement. While rain is not uncommon, especially in the summer, it can occasionally disrupt play, adding an unpredictable element to the game.

T20 matches at this venue often see competitive totals in the 150-160 range. However, if set batters settle in, scores can climb beyond 170. Spinners tend to play a crucial role in the middle overs, often turning the tide of the match by slowing down the scoring rate and taking key wickets.

Australia Women vs New Zealand Women Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In the last five encounters between Australia Women and New Zealand Women, Australia has dominated with four wins and one no result.

AUS-W vs NZ-W Prediction

According to cricket analysts Australia Women have a 60% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.