Kerr and Gaze’s 163-Run Opening Stand Seals Dominant Win Over Zimbabwe women’s national cricket team

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New Zealand Women secured a commanding 110-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I in Hamilton, sealing the three-match series with one game to spare. Stand-in captain Amelia Kerr and wicketkeeper-batter Isabella Gaze produced a match-winning opening partnership to continue their outstanding form and underline New Zealand’s dominance at home.

Opening the innings in T20 Internationals for the first time, Kerr delivered a sparkling 82 off 52 balls. The right-hander, who had already registered her maiden T20I century in the first match of the series, once again provided early momentum. Alongside Gaze, she stitched together a superb 163-run opening stand — the second-highest opening partnership for New Zealand Women in T20Is.

Gaze was equally impressive, finishing unbeaten on 85 off 54 deliveries — her highest score in the format. The duo’s partnership followed their record 159-run stand for the second wicket in the opening T20I, highlighting their growing chemistry at the top of the order. New Zealand eventually posted a formidable 196 for 1, although they managed just 33 runs in the final 23 balls after Kerr’s dismissal. Izzy Sharp added late impetus with an unbeaten 22 off 14 balls.

In response, Zimbabwe struggled to gain momentum. Despite losing only two wickets in the powerplay, they scored just 30 runs in the first six overs, falling well behind the required rate. The middle overs proved decisive as Zimbabwe collapsed, losing seven wickets for 49 runs.

Debutant Kayley Knight made an immediate impact by claiming her maiden international wicket, dismissing Loryn Phiri with a caught-and-bowled effort. Nensi Patel also contributed to the pressure, ensuring the visitors never recovered. Only Kelis Ndhlovu and captain Chiedza Dhururu managed to reach double figures as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 86.

This marks Zimbabwe Women’s first tour of New Zealand, and while the T20I series has been a tough challenge, they will now shift focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series — their first as part of the ICC Women’s Championship cycle.

The final T20I will be played on Sunday at the same venue, with New Zealand aiming for a clean sweep and Zimbabwe looking to salvage pride.