In the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Australian fast bowler Megan Schutt etched her name in cricketing history. On Tuesday, October 8, during the 10th match of the tournament between Australia Women and New Zealand Women at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium as Schutt dismissed New Zealand opener Georgia Plimmer in the third over of the second innings she became the highest wicket-taker in history of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

Historic milestone for Megan Schutt

In the third over of the second innings, Schutt delivered a game-changing moment for Australia. Plimmer, facing her on a good-length delivery, attempted a pull shot, but the ball kept low and crashed into the middle stump, sending the White Ferns batter back to the pavilion with just 4 runs off 7 balls. With that dismissal, Schutt claimed her 46th wicket in the Women’s T20 World Cup, surpassing South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail to become the highest wicket-taker in the tournament’s history.

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Schutt’s brilliance was not confined to a single wicket. She was pivotal throughout the match, finishing with an impressive haul of 3 wickets. Her performance earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match award. Not only did she dominate this World Cup fixture, but with these three crucial wickets, Schutt also tied the record for the highest number of wickets in Women’s T20I history, alongside Pakistan‘s Nida Dar. Schutt now stands at the top with 143 T20I wickets, showcasing her consistency and skill over the years.

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The Blackcaps struggles with the bat against the defending champions

In the first innings, Australia set a challenging total for New Zealand, posting 148/8 in their allotted 20 overs. The Australian batting lineup delivered steady contributions, setting a target of 149 for the Kiwis to chase. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the Aussies managed to reach a competitive total, putting pressure on New Zealand right from the start.

In response, New Zealand faltered under the relentless bowling attack of Australia. The Kiwis were bowled out for just 88 runs in 19.2 overs, falling well short of the target. Australia’s bowlers, led by Schutt, were clinical in their execution, dismantling the New Zealand batting order. This comprehensive bowling performance resulted in Australia securing a dominant 60-run victory.

Australia’s dominance in the tournament

This victory marks Australia’s second consecutive win in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. Having played two matches so far, Australia remains unbeaten in the tournament, reinforcing their status as the most successful team in Women’s T20 World Cup history. With six titles already to their name, Australia continues to demonstrate why they are considered the powerhouse of women’s cricket on the global stage.

With two wins from two matches, Australia is well on track for yet another successful World Cup campaign. Schutt’s record-breaking performance will undoubtedly boost the team’s confidence as they aim for their seventh ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title. All eyes will be on the Australian squad as they move forward in the tournament, with Schutt continuing to lead the charge with both skill and determination.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.