New Zealand struggled to find momentum throughout their innings, with Amelia Kerr’s unbeaten 51 and Sophie Devine’s 39* offering some resistance but at a pace that ultimately proved too slow against a ruthless Australian attack. Devine’s return to international cricket after a mental health break was met with some struggles for fluency, as she found it difficult to accelerate when needed. Australia’s bowling unit, despite missing Alana King, maintained tight control over the game. Darcie Brown was particularly impressive, dismissing Suzie Bates early and finishing with 1 for 22 from her four overs. Tahlia McGrath and Annabel Sutherland applied further pressure, with Sutherland’s spell of 0 for 21 keeping New Zealand in check during the middle overs. The Australian chase was nothing short of dominant. Beth Mooney, playing her 200th international match, made a stunning 75* off 42 balls, while Georgia Voll notched her maiden T20I half-century with 51 off 30. Their opening stand of 123 was the highest by an Australian pair against New Zealand in T20Is, and their blistering start of 77 runs in the powerplay set the tone for an emphatic victory. While Ashleigh Gardner’s injury was the only downside for Australia, their performance sent a strong message to the reigning world champions. With this comprehensive eight-wicket win, Australia reinforced their No. 1 ranking and took a 1-0 lead in the series. New Zealand will need to regroup quickly before the second T20I, where they’ll look to find answers against a dominant Australian side. Gardner’s injury was a turning point in the match, momentarily lifting New Zealand’s momentum. Devine, who had struggled for fluency, suddenly found rhythm after Gardner’s dropped catch and subsequent injury, striking four boundaries in quick succession. However, even with Kerr’s steady half-century, New Zealand’s total lacked firepower. Their 17 boundaries across the innings paled in comparison to Australia’s aggressive chase, led by Mooney’s 10 fours and a six, alongside Voll’s nine boundaries. With a dominant eight-wicket win and a 1-0 series lead, Australia now turn their attention to the next two matches in Mount Maunganui and Wellington. New Zealand will need to regroup quickly to challenge the world’s top-ranked side.