Australia dealt the first blow in the series but the match could not have been closer. It was a real dogfight on a tricky surface and we can expect more of the same at the Cazalys Stadium.
Australia vs New Zealand | 8 September 2022 | Cazalys Stadium, Cairns | 06:20
To Win Match
Australia 52/100 | Tie 25/1 | New Zealand 31/20
Australia
Cameron Green has been the standout player for Australia in their late winter start to the home season and could influence the next match just as much.
Glenn Maxwell’s bowling has been a huge bonus for Australia which has allowed them greater versatility and options with the ball.
Australia’s top order is still brittle at times in white ball cricket which lends an unpredictability to the team’s overall performance.
Bowling is their great strength led by arguably the best white ball bowler in the world right now Josh Hazlewood.
New Zealand
New Zealand applied themselves well with the bat and bowled well in patches but still came out on the losing end last time out.
They need to find ways to be more aggressive while at the crease and make better use of their long batting lineup.
Lockie Ferguson’s bowling was too loose and aided Australia in turning the tide of the match and he might miss out on the second match.
New Zealand need to use this series to settle on their ideal combinations ahead of the 2023 World Cup.
Verdict: Australia 52/100
The hosts should be able to close out the series out in Cairns.
