New Zealand beat Australia 52-49 in game three of the Constellation Cup in Sydney, taking the trophy. The Ferns scored seven straight goals after three-quarter-time to build a five-goal lead. The Diamonds levelled at 47-47 late in the match, but turnovers and penalties cost them, and New Zealand won the final quarter 13-8. The Diamonds trail 3-0 in the four-game series and will play for pride in Melbourne on Wednesday. Coach Stacey Marinkovich's role is described as safe for now by former Diamond Bianca Chatfield.
The Diamonds trail the four-game Constellation Cup series 2-0 after losing 62-50 to New Zealand in Christchurch. The Silver Ferns could take the world number one ranking from Australia if they win all four matches. The Diamonds shot less accurately, committed more turnovers and were penalised more often. Diamonds captain Liz Watson said the team had shot itself in the foot at key moments. The series resumes in Sydney on Sunday and Melbourne next Wednesday.
Australia have been asked to bat first in the second women's T20I against New Zealand at North Sydney Oval after losing the toss. Phoebe Litchfield returns from a low-grade hip strain, replacing Tahlia McGrath in the side. Australia lost the opening match by two wickets, and New Zealand need to win the series to end a long gap in trans-Tasman T20I wins. New Zealand opener Georgia Plimmer hit a career-best 85 not out in the first game. The series decider is set for Thursday, October 22.
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The Rose Bowl will now be contested in every bilateral women's series between Australia and New Zealand, beginning with a three-match T20 series at North Sydney Oval from Sunday. Since 1985 the trophy has been tied to one-day series, and Australia have held it since February 2000. Australian captain Sophie Molineux said the change adds excitement to the rivalry. If a tour includes both formats, the winner will be the side with more victories across them, with ties leaving the trophy with its holders.
