Australia have claimed the opening game of the Twenty20 international series against the White Ferns with a 17-run victory in Brisbane.
Led by a brilliant by player of the match Ashleigh Gardner's 61 off 41 balls, the world champions were relatively restricted to 138-6 in their opening innings against some effective NZ bowling.
Sophie Devine was the pick of the White Ferns' attack, finishing with figures of 3-18.
The NZ chase - spearheaded by Devine - got off to a steady start, but hit a controversial snag, when the skipper was adjudged stumped in a tight call to end her knock of 29 off 34 balls.
Devine's departure saw the NZ run rate slow significantly, with Suzie Bates anchoring one end as wickets fell at critical junctures.
Martin (21) and Bates (33) were forced to slog away late, but were both sent packing by Megan Schutt, who was the best Aussie bowler with 4-23.
The White Ferns will have an immediate chance to square the series in the second match on Sunday.
