In a record-breaking series opener at Seddon Park, New Zealand Women showcased a ruthless performance to dismantle Zimbabwe by 92 runs. The match was largely defined by a historic batting display from the hosts, who capitalized on perfect conditions in Hamilton to set a massive target. While Zimbabwe showed flashes of grit, particularly through some disciplined middle-order resistance, they were ultimately outclassed by a White Ferns side that looked clinical in every department.
The tone for the afternoon was set early when Zimbabwe won the toss and made the bold decision to bowl first. It initially seemed like a reasonable gamble as they managed to find an early breakthrough, dismissing Georgia Plimmer for 32 off 20 balls. However, that was as good as it got for the visitors. That wicket only served to bring Amelia Kerr and Isabella Gaze together, sparking a partnership that would eventually take the game completely away from Zimbabwe.
Amelia Kerr was the undisputed star of the show, delivering a masterclass in T20 batting. She raced to an unbeaten 101 off just 51 deliveries, peppered with 19 boundaries. It wasn’t just about the power, but the surgical precision with which she picked gaps in the field. Supporting her brilliantly at the other end was Isabella Gaze, who played a composed yet aggressive knock of 66* from 50 balls. Together, they propelled New Zealand to a daunting total of 202/1, leaving the Zimbabwe bowlers with very few answers.
Chasing a target of 202 is tall for any side, and Zimbabwe’s pursuit got off to a rocky start. They lost Kelis Ndhlovu for a duck in the very first over, and Nyasha Gwanzura followed shortly after without bothering the scorers. At 5/2, the chase felt like it was over before it had truly begun. The New Zealand new-ball pair of Jess Kerr and Bree Illing kept the pressure on, making it incredibly difficult for the visitors to find any momentum during the powerplay.
Despite the early wreckage, Beloved Biza and Josephine Nkomo deserve immense credit for steadying the ship. They refused to go down without a fight, stitching together a resilient 50-run partnership that at least ensured Zimbabwe wouldn’t be bowled out cheaply. Biza, in particular, fought hard for her unbeaten 49 off 55 balls, showing great technique against a high-quality attack. Nkomo chipped in with a useful 25, but the climbing required run rate meant they were always fighting a losing battle.
New Zealand’s bowling was as disciplined as their batting was explosive. Captain Amelia Kerr capped off her perfect day by picking up 2/14 from her four overs, effectively stifling any hopes of a late-innings surge. The visitors eventually finished their 20 overs at 110/4. It was a comprehensive 92-run victory for the White Ferns, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and setting a high bar for the games to follow.
Loves all things female cricket