Australiatook the lead in the three-match series against New Zealand by securing a six-wicket victory with 21 balls to spare in the first T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday, October 1 at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. Only four wickets were lost as the touring side chased down the 182-run target with a great degree of convenience.
The Black Caps were off to a dismal start, losing three wickets inside the first two overs itself. They recovered to 49/3 at the end of the powerplay, as the youngster
Tim Robinson brought up his half-century in 31 balls. It was quite a solid recovery by the hosts halfway into the innings. They had set themselves a solid platform with the score reading 93/3.
Adam Zampa completed a brilliant spell, conceding just 27 runs without taking any wickets. Bevon Jacobs was run-out on the fourth ball of the penultimate over of the innings. He could score only 20 off 21. Robinson finished the innings in some style. Aged 23, he became the second-youngest male New Zealander to stroke a maiden T20I ton.
Mitchell Marshand Travis Head went after the bowlers from the outset. Head was dismissed for a brisk 18-ball 31 on the third ball before the powerplay ended. Zakary Foulkes was plundered for 21 runs in his second over, which took the total to 111/1 in nine overs. The Australians brought down the asking rate to a run-a-ball by the 10-over mark.
The second Australian wicket fell courtesy Kyle Jamieson, who trapped Matthew Short (29 off 18) plumb in front via a slower ball full-toss. Marsh was all set to get to his ton with enough runs left to get to the milestone. However, he picked out deep cover to get dismissed for 85 off 43. Marcus Stoinis hit the winning runs, pulling behind square off the first ball he faced.
