New Zealand v Australia: first women's T20 international
Show key events only Please turn on JavaScript to use this feature Martin Pegan
Hello and welcome to live coverage of the first women's T20I between New Zealand and Australia.
The White Ferns arrive at Eden Park as the T20 world champions after their stunning form reversal last year ended with a historic win over South Africa in the final. Australia had claimed the T20 World Cup at the three previous tournaments before their shock defeat to South Africa in the semi-finals, and have been on a tear since then with 12 victories from as many completed matches across all formats.
Both sides are close to full strength though Australia are most crucially without captain Alyssa Healy for this three-match series as the star keeper-batter rehabilitates a foot injury. New Zealand have recalled Sophie Devine, who has given up the T20 captaincy since lifting the trophy last year, while Melie Kerr also returns after sitting out the white-ball matches against Sri Lanka and impressing in the WPL.
The conditions in Auckland are looking promising for a full 40 overs, with a predicted high of 24C and little cloud around.
First ball will be at 2.45pm local time or 12.45pm AEDT. I'll be back shortly with the toss and team news, but in the meantime keep me company with your thoughts and predictions on email or @martinpegan on Bluesky or X. Let's get into it! Share
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