Amelia Kerr and Isabella Gaze Star as New Zealand Clinch T20I Series Against Zimbabwe

New Zealand's openers Amelia Kerr and Isabella Gaze delivered a commanding performance to help the White Ferns secure a 110-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I, clinching the three-match series with a game to spare. Kerr, opening in T20Is for the first time, scored a quick 82 off 52 balls, continuing her outstanding run of form after hitting her maiden T20I century in the series opener. Partnering with wicketkeeper Gaze, the duo added 163 runs for the first wicket, marking the second-highest opening stand for New Zealand in T20Is. The pair had also forged a record 159-run partnership for the second wicket in the first match. Gaze remained unbeaten on 85 off 54 balls, her highest T20I score, as New Zealand posted 196 for 1. After Kerr’s dismissal, the team added only 33 runs in the last 23 balls, with Izzy Sharp finishing unbeaten on 22 off 14 deliveries. Zimbabwe, touring New Zealand for the first time, struggled to chase the total and were bowled out for 86 runs. Despite losing just two wickets in the powerplay, they managed only 30 runs. The middle overs proved costly, as New Zealand bowlers claimed 7 wickets for 49 runs, with newcomers Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight making significant impacts. Knight, making her international debut, captured her maiden wicket by sending back Loryn Phiri caught and bowled. Only Kelis Ndhlovu and captain Chiedza Dhururu managed to reach double figures for Zimbabwe. Following the T20I series, the two teams will contest a three-match ODI series, marking Zimbabwe’s first participation in the ICC Women’s Championship. The third and final T20I will take place on Sunday at the same Hamilton venue.