All-rounder Annabel Sutherland scored a spectacular century as Australia defeated New Zealand by 65 runs using the DLS technique in the second ODI at Basin Reserve on Saturday, bringing them one step closer to winning the ICC Women’s Championship for the third time in a row.

The output is:Annabel made it back-to-back hundreds after striking a spectacular century in the last ODI match against India in Perth. She was undefeated at 105 off 81 deliveries, with two sixes and 11 fours at a strike rate of 129.63.

The fact that none of the Australian batsmen reached 35 further emphasizes the significance of her hit. Australia scored 291/7, despite pacer Molly Penfold recording her career-best ODI figures of 4/42.

Before Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine, and Brooke Halliday collapsed, leaving New Zealand in ruins at 131/5 in 30.1 overs and 65 runs below the DLS-par mark when play was cut short due to rain, Kim Garth had already removed openers Suzie Bates and Bella Jones.

Australia ultimately prevailed by the DLS technique, leaving them with a 1-0 series lead. The series’ final match is set for Monday. Australia’s victory on Saturday also moved them up to 37 points in the ICC Women’s Championship rankings.

With 25 points, India is still the only team that can compete with Australia. India has to win their last six games in the cycle, three against the West Indies and three against Ireland, in order to achieve it.

Harmanpreet Kaur will skipper India in their first match against the West Indies on Sunday at Vadodara’s Kotambi Cricket Stadium. In the match on Monday, they will also need New Zealand to defeat Australia. However, any other result, like a draw or tie, will enable Australia to win the ICC Women’s Championship for the third time in a row.

Brief Scores: Using the DLS technique, Australia defeated New Zealand 122/5 (Amelia Kerr 38; Kim Garth 217) and 291/7 (Annabel Sutherland 105 not out; Molly Penfold 4-42).