Katie Perkins of New Zealand bats during the women's International Twenty20. Photo / Getty Images
The White Ferns fell to a four-wicket loss against Australia in their opening Twenty20 match at the North Sydney Oval today.
After losing the toss and being put in to bat, New Zealand made a competitive 145-7 from 20 overs as Frances Mackay and debutante Katie Perkins each made 31,
while captain Suzie Bates top-scored with 33.
Aucklander Perkins, 23, struck her runs from only 23 balls and her knock included four boundaries, which proved valuable at the end of the innings.
Australia began their pursuit of New Zealand's total in slow fashion as opening bowlers Sian Ruck and Morna Nielsen produced economical spells.
Ruck was particularly impressive as she finished with 2-19 from four overs, including the only maiden over of the match.
