Amelia Kerr has spun through Australia’s lower order to give New Zealand hope of ending their eight-game T20 losing streak in Mackay.
The visitors were set 143 for victory on Sunday night after Kerr’s 4-20 halted a fast start following Australian captain Alyssa Healy’s call to bat first.
Australia won the series opener by five wickets, the loss a record eighth straight for New Zealand in the format ahead of next month’s World Cup.
Thanks largely to long-time Brisbane Heat import Kerr, they now have a chance to take the series to a game three decider in Brisbane on Tuesday.
Set for a move to the Sydney Sixers in the next WBBL series, Kerr ripped through the world champions with balls that spun both ways at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Healy (38 off 25) and Ellyse Perry (34 off 33) had Australia cruising before the skipper holed out to Eden Carson (1-26 from four overs).
Kerr knocked over Ashleigh Gardner – back in the side after being cleared of concussion – to start the slide and was then on a hat-trick as part of a three-wicket over to close her spell.
The hosts lost their last seven wickets for 28 runs, with none of Australia’s capable lower order able to get going.
Fast bowler Darcie Brown will be unleashed after replacing fellow quick Tayla Vlaeminck in the XI while New Zealand captain Sophie Devine (ankle) was a welcome return at the top of the order.
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