Rain had the final word in an exciting match as Australia shared points with New Zealand in their first match of the Champions Trophy in Edgbaston on Friday.
Chasing a Duckworth-Lewis-Stern adjusted score of 235 in 33 overs, Australia were in strife at 53/3 in nine overs when rain interrupted the match for the third time, ultimately rendering no further play possible. Australia had lost openers David Warner and Aaron Finch and Moises Henriques by that time.
The second rain break happened after New Zealand were bowled out for 291 in 45 overs. Though captain Kane Williamson will have reason to feel aggrieved at the final result, his team saw a startling implosion in the first innings after an imposing start where they threatened a massive score. Martin Guptill’s early wicket hardy had an impact as Luke Ronchi breezed to a 43-ball 65 on either side of a lengthy rain break which reduced the innings to a 46-over match.
Ronchi’s wicket brought out Ross Taylor who combined with Kane Williamson in a 99-run partnership where they looked to set the foundation for a late assault. New Zealand looked set for 320+ at 216/2 in 33.4 overs but Taylor’s dismissal for 46 signalled a complete turnaround.
Williamson got to a well-constructed century but was run out next ball. Australia’s bowlers, in particular Josh Hazlewood who finished with a magnificent 6/52, snatched things back as the Kiwis imploded for just 291 in 45 overs. But, Australia’s confidence did not last long as they stuttered to a shaky start, bailed out by the rain at the end.
Brief scores:
New Zealand 291 in 45 overs (Kane Williamson 100, Luke Ronchi 65; Josh Hazlewood 6/52, John Hastings 2/69) vs Australia 53/3 in 9 overs (Moises Henriques 18, David Warner 18; Adam Milne 2/9) - No Result