Australia thump New Zealand to book spot in CWG final against India

BIRMINGHAM: Megan Schutt starred with three wickets before a strong performance from batsmen helped Australia Women beat New Zealand by five wickets in the second semi-final of the Commonwealth Games, here at Edgbaston on Saturday.

With the resounding victory, Australia Women secured their place in today’s final against India.

Australia’s remarkable batting depth played a crucial role in their triumph, as typically dependable Alyssa Healy (14) and Meg Lanning (7) narrowly missed their attempts to top New Zealand’s respectable total of 144/7.

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The all-rounder Tahlia McGrath remained impressive with her 34-for-23 as she combined excellently with starter Beth Mooney for a 56-run third-wicket position before Rachael Haynes went 19-for-18 and Ashleigh Gardner played an unbeaten stroke. of 19 of 20 to take their side of victory.

Kiwi pacemaker Lea Tahuhu, on the other hand, bowled superbly and grabbed three crucial wickets, however her efforts were in vain as fielding lapses cost the White Ferns dearly and Australia hit the target in the final.

After being brought up to bat, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine inspired with her dazzling 53-for-48 strike, while all-rounder Amelia Kerr showed great courage as she smashed 40-for-35 to help her team to a total competitive amid a lousy show from other hitters.

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Right-arm pacemaker Schutt made an immediate impact as she took out Kiwi starter Suzie Bates for a duck and then took out Georgia Plimmer in the sixth over for 17-for-16.

Schutt had his third when he sacked Brooke Halliday after she tried to make a dent in Australian bowling with her powerful 16-for-10 bowling.

For Australia, in addition to Schutt, Tahlia bagged two wickets while Jess Jonassen also made a scalp.

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