The NZ Women Emerging Players XI have exacted their revenge against the Australian U21 side with a seven wicket win at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln.
Australia set the Emerging XI 127 for victory, but couldn’t contain the home side who sealed the game with an over in hand.
Having opted to bat first the Aussies got off to a troubled start and were rollicking at 12 for three.
But sure enough they fought back after a strong performance from their middle order. Beth Mooney was sensible on her way to 35, but it was Jemma Barsby who top-scored for the visitors with 37 from 32 deliveries.
Kate Broadmore and Georgia Guy both had success with the ball for the Kiwis and, picked up two wickets a piece.
In reply New Zealand got off to a shocking start when Frances Mackay was dismissed with the team just on one.
However, from this point on it was all the Kiwis.
Anna Peterson scored a quick fire 22, before a partnership between Janet Brehaut and Natalie Dodd took the Emerging XI to the commanding position of 91 for two.
Dodd was stumped for 25 at that point, but it was evident that it was going to be the New Zealander’s day.
Mindy Hodgson came in with an extremely important unbeaten 16, but the real hero was Brehaut. The Canterbury Magician batsmen finished 56 not out as the Emerging XI levelled up the Twenty20 series with seven wickets and six balls to spare.
It was an exciting win for the Kiwis, who really got on top of the Aussie bowlers.
They’ll be looking to take that form and confidence into the ODI series which gets underway on Sunday at 10:30am.
