New Zealand win a close high scoring match against Australia

Another century was missed by a New Zealand batsman. It was Martin Guptill this time but as his teammate in the previous match, he got his team over the line. Neesham proved his worth by another quickfire knock. A massive target of 220 runs was set for Australia and they got too close, but were still to far. Marcus Stoinis held the hopes alive for Australia but couldn’t take them over.

Brief Scores:

New Zealand : 219/7 (20). Guptill 97(50), Wiiliamson 53(35), Kane Richardson 3/43, Jhye Richardson 1/39.

Australia : 215/8 /20). Stoinis 78(37), Philippe 45(32), Santner 4/31, Neesham 2/10.

Man Of The Match: Martin Guptill

Guptill, Williamson, Neesham Power New Zealand To A Mammoth Total

NZ lost their 1^st wicket in the fourth over itself at 20 runs. But celebrations for Australia didn’t last a long thanks to a 131 run partnership between Guptill and captain Williamson. Williamson played an anchor role while Guptill went all guns blazing in this innings striking at a rate of 194.00. Though he missed his century, he already won half the battle for his team. NZ lost both Guptill and Williamson in quick succession. Just when the Aussies were looking to slower things down, Neesham 45(16) decided to exhibit his pinch hitting capabilities. He hit the Australian bowlers all over the park with a whopping strike rate of 281.25. Australia were left to chase 219 runs which was near to impossible.

Aus Get Close But Fall Short By 4 Runs

Australia needed a quick start to get anywhere close to the target. Wade 24(15) provided that but no one was there to accompany him. Philippe 45(32) looked to steady things down but he was too slow for this target. Stoinis came as a ray of hope smashing bowlers and scoring 78 of just 37 balls. Maxwell was a flop once again. Neesham showcased his all round skills removing the both dangerous looking Stoinis and Sams in one over. Daniel Sams 41(15) too played a fine cameo but eventually Australia were stopped 4 runs short of the target. Santner was the pick of the bowlers taking 4 wickets and giving away just 31 runs.

New Zealand now lead the 5 match series 2-0 and are on a moral high ground after this win. It will take a lot from Australia to come back in the series. They now require 3 consecutive wins in order to win the series while New Zealand need to win just one out of the next 3.

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