Australia surged after a hard-fought victory in Sharjah, building on lessons from a less dominant performance against Sri Lanka. With a clinical 60-run win over New Zealand, Australia demonstrated their growing strength, leaving India to play their first and only group game at the venue. Though India stands to benefit from New Zealand’s declining net run rate (NRR), their own position remains precarious after an upset loss to New Zealand and a cautious win against Pakistan.
For India to surpass New Zealand’s NRR in their next game against Sri Lanka, they’ll need specific outcomes. If they bat first and post 130, India must restrict Sri Lanka to 84 to edge ahead of New Zealand’s NRR. Alternatively, if Sri Lanka bats first and scores 100, India will need to chase it down in under 12.4 overs.
Australia’s victory was forged by improved performances from Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, and Beth Mooney. Mooney top-scored with 40 off 32 balls, building on her key innings from their prior game against Sri Lanka. The Australian batters adapted well to the pitch, racking up 148 for 8—Sharjah’s highest score in the tournament so far.
With sharper batting, Australia also benefitted from a more strategic approach with the ball. Megan Schutt, the standout bowler, grabbed 3 for 12 against Sri Lanka and was even more effective against New Zealand, finishing with 3 for 3 from 3.2 overs. New Zealand’s batters struggled, falling for just 88 in the final over.
Although New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr took 4 for 26, her efforts couldn’t prevent a comprehensive defeat. Despite the loss, Kerr remained hopeful, stressing the importance of winning their remaining games to control their qualification hopes.
Australia will face Pakistan next in Dubai, while New Zealand looks to bounce back against Sri Lanka.