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New Zealand Women (NZW) will take on Australia Women (AUSW) in the first of a three-match T20I series at Eden Park, Auckland. The White Ferns have welcomed back several star players, including Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, and Lea Tahuhu, after missing recent outings. Meanwhile, Australia Women, led by Tahlia McGrath, are riding high on confidence after winning their last six consecutive matches against New Zealand. With key players like Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Megan Schutt in the squad, the Aussies remain the favorites to continue their dominance.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | NZW vs AUSW |
| Series | 3-match T20I Series |
| Date | 21st March 2025 |
| Venue | Eden Park, Auckland |
| Time | 7:15 AM |
Team Previews
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand Women will rely heavily on their returning stars to turn the tide against their formidable rivals. Suzie Bates, leading the side, will open alongside Georgia Plimmer, forming a solid top-order partnership. Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr will anchor the middle order, with Devine also contributing with her medium pace. Brooke Halliday and Maddy Green provide depth in the lower middle order, while Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, and Fran Jonas spearhead the bowling attack.
The team has struggled against Australia historically, losing their last four encounters, but they hope the return of senior players and home advantage can help them break the streak. Their recent performance against Sri Lanka Women showed glimpses of promise, especially from Halliday and Kerr.
Australia Preview
Australia Women enter this series as overwhelming favorites, boasting a strong lineup across all departments. Beth Mooney and Nicole Faltum bring stability behind the stumps, while Ashleigh Gardner, Ellyse Perry, and Phoebe Litchfield form a formidable batting core. The bowling department is equally impressive, featuring Megan Schutt, Kim Garth, Annabel Sutherland, and Darcie Brown. Georgia Wareham adds balance as an all-rounder.
Their recent dominance over New Zealand—winning six straight matches—gives them psychological superiority. With consistent performances from their experienced players and emerging talents, Australia looks poised to continue their unbeaten run.
Favorite Team to Win Today
| Team | Reasons |
|---|---|
| Australia | Strong head-to-head record, superior squad depth, and experience give them a clear edge. |
Why Australia?:
Australia’s consistency and depth make them the favorites. Players like Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney thrive under pressure, while bowlers like Megan Schutt and Kim Garth have been exceptional in T20Is. Their recent winning streak against New Zealand highlights their dominance. While New Zealand has strengthened their squad with returning stars, Australia’s all-round firepower and ability to adapt to different conditions give them a slight edge. Expect the visitors to capitalize on their momentum and secure another victory.
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Beth Mooney | Wicketkeeper | AUSW |
| Suzie Bates (c) | Batsman | NZW |
| Ellyse Perry | All-rounder | AUSW |
| Sophie Devine | All-rounder | NZW |
| Phoebe Litchfield | Batsman | AUSW |
| Amelia Kerr | Bowler | NZW |
| Grace Harris | Batsman | AUSW |
| Lea Tahuhu | Bowler | NZW |
| Megan Schutt | Bowler | AUSW |
| Eden Carson | Bowler | NZW |
| Georgia Wareham | All-rounder | AUSW |
Explanation: This fantasy team balances batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders from both sides. Key picks include Beth Mooney for her consistency, Suzie Bates for leadership, and bowlers like Megan Schutt and Lea Tahuhu for their wicket-taking abilities.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Beth Mooney (AUSW) – Reliable with the bat and gloves.
- Vice-Captain: Ellyse Perry (AUSW) – Versatile performer with both bat and ball.
Players to Avoid
- Brooke Halliday (NZW) – Still inconsistent despite flashes of brilliance.
- Darcie Brown (AUSW) – Young and relatively inexperienced in crucial matches.
Probable Playing XIs
| New Zealand Women | Australia Women |
|---|---|
| Suzie Bates (c), Georgia Plimmer | Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry |
| Sophie Devine, Brooke Halliday | Ashleigh Gardner, Phoebe Litchfield |
| Amelia Kerr, Maddy Green | Grace Harris, Tahlia McGrath (c) |
| Jess Kerr, Polly Inglis (wk) | Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham |
| Rosemary Mair, Eden Carson, Fran Jonas | Kim Garth, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown |
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The pitch at Eden Park is balanced, favoring both batters and bowlers. Teams batting first should aim for 175+. Sunny weather is expected, with no rain interruptions predicted.
Toss Prediction
Batting first is advisable due to the nature of the pitch and past trends at the venue.
Winner Prediction
Australia Women are likely to win given their superior squad and recent dominance over New Zealand.
Final Prediction: Australia Women to win.
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