Australia narrowly defeated New Zealand by two wickets in the opening Twenty20 International match of the Rose Bowl series at North Sydney Oval on Sunday night. The reigning T20 World Cup champions successfully chased down New Zealand’s total of 162 for 2, finishing at 165 for 8 with seven balls remaining.

New Zealand’s innings was highlighted by a record partnership between Georgia Plimmer and Maddy Green, who combined for an unbeaten 127 runs off 80 balls. Plimmer, 22, scored a career-best 85 from 68 deliveries, while Green contributed 56 runs from 37 balls. Their effort lifted New Zealand to a record-equalling total, providing a strong platform for the visitors despite a challenging start to their innings.

The White Ferns, undergoing a period of transition following the retirements of key players Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu after a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign in mid-2026, showed promise but could not capitalize. Plimmer was fortunate to survive two tough chances off the bowling of Annabel Sutherland and Tahlia McGrath.

Australia’s chase began solidly but faltered dramatically after reaching 86 runs in 8.2 overs. Veteran batter Beth Mooney was run out in a confusing mix-up with Ellyse Perry after being dismissed for 38 runs off 25 balls. This dismissal triggered a severe middle-order collapse, with Australia losing seven wickets for just 62 runs.

Perry made a spirited effort, scoring a quick half century off 27 balls before falling to Jess Kerr, who took four wickets in the innings. Kerr’s younger sister, Amelia, also contributed by taking a catch and running out a batter. Other notable wickets fell to Kerr’s disciplined bowling, including dismissals of Georgie Wareham, Ash Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, and captain Sophie Molineux.

Despite the tense finish and loss of momentum, Australia managed to hold on with contributions from lower-order batters and tail-ender Kim Garth, who faced eight balls before scoring a boundary to help seal the victory. This win marks Australia’s 11th consecutive T20 international win, while New Zealand’s recent form continues to be a concern, having lost six of their last nine matches in the format.

The Rose Bowl series continues with two more matches scheduled at North Sydney Oval on Tuesday and Thursday. Both sides will look to adjust as they build towards future international fixtures.