Australia Vs New Zealand 2nd T20I: Pat Cummins delivered an all-round masterclass as Australia thump hosts New Zealand by 72 runs in the second T20I of the three-match T20I series to seal a second successive T20I series within the month of February. Electing to bowl first at the Eden Park in Auckland, the Black Caps didn't do justice to their decision as Australia already chipped in 20 runs within the initial over of the innings. That followed with the wrath caused by Travis Head and company, as they went past 70 within the powerplay.
However, New Zealand made a terrific comeback of their own as they reduced the Kangaroos from 85/1 in 6.3 overs, to 138/7 in 14.2 overs. A resilient Pat Cummins showed grit and composure as his vital 28 helped Australia get past the 170-run mark and post an above par total on a tough surface. In reply, a Devon Conway-less New Zealand never looked like even competing as an aggresive and ruthless display of impeccable bowling from Australia rattled a dismal batting order of New Zealand, with only Glenn Phillips managing a respectable individual score.
"Great win for us. Our backs were against the wall. I thought we were 50 short. But the way our bowlers came out and performed was outstanding. A collective effort. It's one of those grounds were you get lured into the short boundaries. The wicket was good. Had steep bounce which we should be used to," said Australian captain, Mitchell Marsh in post-match presentation.
"One of our mantras as a batting unit is to keep taking the game on and trusting our skills. I was proud of the fact we did that. I think all of our teams have been backed into corners in the last 12 months and we've found a way to get out of them. Tonight was another great example of that," he added.