By In a thrilling T20I series opener in Wellington, Tim David’s electrifying 10-ball cameo worth 31 runs turned the tide for Australia, nullifying New Zealand’s imposing total of 215/3. New Zealand’s innings was anchored by Devon Conway’s 63 off 46 balls and Rachin Ravindra’s explosive 68 off 35 balls, setting a daunting target for Australia.
Australia’s chase seemed daunting at the 17-over mark, needing 35 runs from 12 balls. Lockie Ferguson and Adam Milne bowled tightly, leaving Australia with a challenging equation. However, Tim David’s heroics in the final overs changed the game. He smashed a wide yorker for a four and followed it up with two consecutive sixes, shifting the momentum in Australia’s favor.
With 16 needed off the final over, Tim Southee seemed to have the upper hand, but Tim David had other plans. He struck a boundary off a full toss and managed two runs off a wide yorker. Requiring four off the last ball, David calmly found the gap to secure a remarkable victory for Australia.
Australia’s chase was bolstered by Mitchell Marsh’s unbeaten 72 off 44 balls, anchoring the innings after the early loss of David Warner and Travis Head.
Despite Finn Allen’s aggressive start and the Conway-Ravindra partnership, New Zealand’s total fell short. The duo of Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell bore the brunt of New Zealand’s onslaught, conceding 74 runs in five overs.
In the end, Australia’s exceptional run-chase, led by Tim David’s heroics, sealed a memorable victory in a high-scoring encounter.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 215/3 in 20 overs (Rachin Ravindra 68, Devon Conway 63; Mitchell Marsh 1-21) lost to Australia 216/4 in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 72, David Warner 32, Tim David 31; Mitchell Santner 2-42) by 6 wickets
