Auckland, Mar 21 (UNI) While Australia cruised to an emphatic win against New Zealand in the opening T20I in Auckland, there were some concerns as a seasoned campaigner came under an injury scanner.

Beth Mooney's 75 not out off 42 in her 200th international for Australia helped her team to a stellar eight-wicket win against New Zealand, helping the side get off to a winning start to the three-game series.

However, injury to experienced all-rounder Ash Gardner has given some concerns to the Australia setup, the ICC media release.

Gardner bowled 14 balls in the New Zealand innings before injuring herself during the 17th over. She tried to go for a return catch against a powerfully hit shot from Sophie Devine, however, ended up injuring her right index finger. Gardner immediately left the field, with her remaining over being completed by Georgia Wareham.

While she wasn't needed during Australia's chase of 138, which was superbly aced by Mooney and Georgia Voll, there are concerns around her immediate availability.

"Gardner was taken for scans after she was struck on the right index figure while attempting to hang onto a powerfully struck return catch from Devine," a statement from Cricket Australia read.

"She immediately left the field, with her involvement in the remainder of the series currently under a cloud."

Australia's reliable all-rounder has 78 wickets and 1411 runs in the format, and will be dearly missed if she fails to play in the remainder of the series.

Speaking in a press conference after the contest, Mooney provided an update on Gardner, "She got a bit of a hit to a finger, if Sophie [Devine had] middled that it would've probably gone for a six, that's how hard it got hit.

"She has gone off for some scans. The team will have discussions once they get some more info on that."

Mooney also discussed her instrumental performance in her milestone game.

"Eden Park is a pretty iconic venue in New Zealand. So first and foremost to do it here was pretty special," Mooney said describing her Player of the Match performance.

"I had a few close family and friends, so that was nice as well. To play as we did was probably the icing on the cake for sure."

The second T20I is all set to be played at Mount Maunganui on 23rd March.

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