Australia beat New Zealand by five runs
DHARAMSALA (MNP) – Fiery knocks by Rachin Ravindra and Jimmy Neesham went in vein as Australian defeated New Zealand by five runs in the World Cup thriller at Dharamsala stadium on Saturday.
Devon Conway and Will Young provided the perfect start to the Black Caps in a steep chase. They smashed multiple boundaries to help New Zealand reach 50 in merely 5.1 overs.
However, Australia soon got the first breakthrough, when Conway was sent to packing by Josh Hazlewood, who also removed Young in the first Power Play after a sharp catch by Starc.
Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell then took control for the Kiwis and kept the chase on track. Mitchell played aggressively and made another good score as he smashed 54 that included six fours and a six.
His brisk knock came to an end when he was dismissed by Adam Zampa. Ravindra smashed 116 off 89 and his departure served a major blow to the Black Caps.
Jimmy Neesham from the tail order attempted to maintain the momentum as he narrowed the chase with his 58-run knock, rekindling hopes for New Zealand’s win. However, his attempt for a extra run caused his run out, turning things in favour of Aussies.
Earlier, a resurgent Australia have posted 389-run mammoth target for New Zealand in the 27th match. New Zealand have won the toss and opted to bowl first.
