Sports Reporter :
New Zealand piled up a fighting total of 172 for the loss of four wickets in 20 overs against Australia in their final match of the ICC T20 World Cup at Dubai International Stadium in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday.
New Zealand had a modest start as the opener Daryl Mitchell ( 11) was caught behind by Mathew Wade off Josh Hazlewood when the Kiwis score was 28.
After Mitchell’s departure, Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson repaired the damage contributing together 54 runs for the second wicket partnership before Guptill (28) was caught at the deep mid-wicket by Marcus Stoinis off Adam Zampa when the Black Caps’ total was 76 for the loss of two wickets.
Guptill made 28 from 35 deliveries featuring three fours.
After Guptill’s dismissal, Kane Williamson and Glenn Phillips built another notable partnership. They put on together 68 runs in the third wicket stand before Glenn was caught at the mid-wicket by Glenn Maxwell off Hazlewood when the Kiwis score was 144 for the loss of three wickets.
After Glenn’s departure, Kane could stay at the crease for a short period as he was caught at the long-off by Steven Smith off Hazlewood when 148 for the loss of four wickets.
Williamson stuck a terrific 85. His 48-ball innings was ornamented with 10 fours and three sixes. Glenn Phillips scored 18 from 17 balls including one four and one six.
James Neesham remained unbeaten with 13 runs. He struck one six in his seven-ball knock.
Tim Seifert remained unbeaten with eight runs.
Josh Hazlewwod grabbed three wickets at the cost of 16 runs.
Adam Zampa took one wicket for 26 runs.
