New Zealand bring a 2-0 advantage to Wellington leaving their visitors from across the Tasman needing to win to avoid a first-ever T20I series defeat to the Black Caps.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
The second T20I was an instant classic but the third is likely to play out without the fans who took in the opening matches after a COVID-19 alert in New Zealand.
New Zealand vs Australia | Wednesday 3 March | Wellington Regional Stadium | 08:00
To Win Match
New Zealand 82/100
Tie 25/1
Australia 21/20
New Zealand
New Zealand carry all the momentum after taking the first two matches with their top-order firing on all cylinders.
Jimmy Neesham has been in fine form with the Black Caps finisher rounding off their potent batting lineup.
With the third match set to be played at the multi-purpose Wellington Regional Stadium, we could be in for another high-scoring affair, given the dimensions of the ground making things difficult for the bowlers.
Ish Sodhi was targeted by Australia in the second match but ultimately it was the left-arm spin of Mitchell Santner that was the difference.
New Zealand have great variety in their attack and a smart captain in Kane Williamson to deploy their threats. Putting all of the elements together, the Black Caps are a strong side and they are only improving.
Australia
Australia have fired in fits and starts in the series so far, but the gap between the sides is not insurmountable for the visitors.
The tourists have shown tremendous grit and guts but really need to get more from their makeshift top-order.
Matthew Wade and Aaron Finch as openers hasn’t really had the desired effect but both are dangerous and resilient players who could come off at any moment.
Australia need to settle on an approach in the field that will get the most out of their bowling attack, which has taken some tap in the two matches to date.
Spinners Adam Zampa and Ashton Agar will hold the key if Australia are to turn things around in Wellington.
Verdict: New Zealand 82/100
The hosts should wrap the series up.
Written by James Richardson.
