The 2026 Zimbabwe Women tour of New Zealand kicked off with a strong performance by New Zealand, who defeated Zimbabwe by 92 runs in the first T20I at Seddon Park. Batting first, New Zealand set a challenging total of 202/1 in 20 overs, led by a remarkable century from Amelia Kerr. In response, Zimbabwe managed only 110/4, ensuring a clear win for the hosts.
Amelia Kerr shines in New Zealand’s batting display
After Zimbabwe chose to bowl first, New Zealand Women capitalized on the good batting conditions. Openers Isabella Gaze and Georgia Plimmer started quickly, building a strong partnership that put Zimbabwe under pressure. Plimmer scored 32 runs off just 20 balls, with six boundaries, keeping the momentum with New Zealand.
Gaze kept the scoring going with a solid 66 off 50 balls, hitting six fours and effectively rotating the strike. However, the highlight was Kerr, who came in at No. 3 and played an outstanding unbeaten innings of 101 off just 51 balls, including 19 fours. Her performance displayed both skill and dominance, dismantling the Zimbabwean bowling attack and guiding New Zealand to a total of 202/1.
Among the Zimbabwe bowlers, Nyasha Gwanzura took the only wicket, ending with figures of 1/37 in three overs. The rest of the bowlers struggled, with Christabel Chatonzwa giving away 36 runs in her four overs and Nomvelo Sibanda conceding 26 runs in three overs.
New Zealand’s bowlers execute a strong strategy
Chasing a target of 203, Zimbabwe Women found it hard to get going. Their innings was rocked early with the quick dismissals of Kelis Ndhlovu and Gwanzura, who both failed to score, leaving Zimbabwe in a difficult position.
Chipo Mugeri Tiripano attempted to counterattack with 19 runs off 19 balls, hitting four boundaries, but New Zealand’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, making it challenging to form solid partnerships. Beloved Biza stood out with a resilient 49 runs off 55 balls, featuring five fours. Support came from Josephine Nkomo, who scored 25 runs off 34 balls, but the rising run rate became a significant challenge.
The New Zealand bowling unit was effective in their strategy. Kerr rounded off her exceptional performance with bowling figures of 2/14 in four overs, putting the brakes on the middle order. Bree Illing and Jess Kerr each took one wicket, while Nensi Patel and Rosemary Mair kept things tight, restricting Zimbabwe to 110/4 in their allotted overs. This 92-run victory gives New Zealand Women a 1-0 lead in the series and sends a strong message at the start of the tour.
