January 27

Mooney advances Australia to an easy win.

Powered by Beth Mooney at the top of the order, Australia defeated South Africa by eight wickets in the first T20I of the series in Canberra.

Despite being sick, Captain Alyssa Healy hammered 46 off 28 balls to set the tone for the hosts’ chase of a 148-run goal. Mooney (72* off 57) stayed unbroken throughout the chase, helping Australia victory with five balls to spare. Healy’s dismissal at 46 slowed Australia’s charge after a 72-run opening stand, but Mooney, granted a lifeline on 42 when Ayabonga Khaka dropped her at mid-off, capitalized on the opportunity and blasted away for a 44-ball half-century.

Earlier, Tazmin Brits dominated South Africa’s innings with an unbeaten 59 off 54 balls, leading the team to a par total of 147/6, their highest T20I score against Australia. Ellyse Perry (2 for 13) and Darcie Brown (2 for 20) halted Laura Wolvaardt’s promising start, as South Africa’s middle order failed to deliver the late-innings support the Brits required.

On Sunday (January 28), the Manuka Oval will host the second T20I.

Brief Scores: South Africa 147/6 in 20 overs (Tazmin Brits 59*; Ellyse Perry 2-13, Darcie Brown 2-20) lost to Australia 149/2 in 19.1 overs (Beth Mooney 72*, Alyssa Healy 46) by 9 wickets