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Australia vs New Zealand Live Commentary, Match 2, ICC Champions Trophy, 2017, June 2, 2017

NZ 291/10 (45)
Match Abandoned
AUS 53/3 (9)
Match over
New Zealand Inning Australia Inning
0.0 : Hello everyone and welcome to the coverage of Match 2 of the ICC Champions Trophy between New Zealand and Australia at Edgbaston. The Kiwis are coming into the tournament on the back of an impressive performances in the tri-series involving Ireland and Bangladesh but will be aware that Australia will be a different challenge. They had a couple of warm-up games, they lost heavily to India but chased down a score in excess of 350 against Sri Lanka with ease to regain confidence.
Australia on the other hand are playing an ODI after a long break. They too, like their neighbours won their warm-up game against Sri Lanka. The other against Pakistan was washed out. There have been many off-field issues which have bothered them but the skipper Steven Smith will hope that the team puts them behind and focus on the task on hand. They have won in all four encounters against the Black Caps in Champions Trophy. Will the history repeat itself or will the Kiwis break the record? Stay
TOSS - NEW ZEALAND WIN THE TOSS AND OPT TO BAT.
New Zealand skipper, Kane Williamson informs that they will bat. Calls it a good surface as always. Says that they have had a break and then the tri-series helped. Tom Latham, Jeetan Patel, Mitchell McClenaghan and Colin de Grandhomme are missing out today. Adds that the short boundaries make the game interesting. Feels that the warm-up games were good and they are looking forward to the contest. Mentions that Australia are a tough side to beat.
Australia skipper, Steven Smith informs that Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, James Pattinson and Chris Lynn are the ones who are not playing today. Mentions that they would have bowled first anyway. Reckons that the boys are in a good headspace and they are enjoying themselves in the nets. Feels that the Champions Trophy is a big tournament and they need to start well against a strong New Zealand side.
New Zealand XI - Martin Guptill, Luke Ronchi(wk), Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Neil Broom, James Neesham, Corey Anderson, Mitchell Santner, Adam Milne, Tim Southee, Trent Boult.
Australia XI - David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steven Smith(c), Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Moises Henriques, Matthew Wade(wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, John Hastings, Josh Hazlewood.
The players are making their way out in the middle for their respective national anthems.
Game time! The two New Zealand openers are Luke Ronchi and Martin Guptill. Australia begin with Mitchell Starc. He has two slips in place. Here we go...
0.1 : M Starc to M Guptill, Fuller one to begin with, on off, Guptill is watchful as he defends it towards mid off.
0.2 : M Starc to M Guptill, Slants across a good length delivery outside off, Guptill lets it go.
0.3 : M Starc to M Guptill, First runs of the day! Fuller on middle and leg, Guptill clips it through mid-wicket. Two fielders hare after it, Head gets to it and returns the ball. Three runs taken.
0.4 : M Starc to L Ronchi, On a good length around off, Ronchi stays back and defends it watchfully.
0.5 : M Starc to L Ronchi, Too full around off, Ronchi taps it towards covers and takes off. Guptill is a touch slow to respond but so is the fielder Henriques. A single is completed.
0.6 : M Starc to M Guptill, A tad short, going across Guptill, left alone. A tight over from Starc.
Josh Hazlewood to bowl with the second new ball from the other end. Two slips for him as well. It has gone a bit dark out there.
1.1 : J Hazlewood to L Ronchi, Fuller outside off, Ronchi drives it towards third man for a single. That actually went off the outer half.
1.2 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, WIDE! Sprays it wide outside off, left alone by Guptill. Wide signaled.
J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Hurls it outside off on a fuller length, left alone.
1.3 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, FOUR! Up and over! Too full and on the pads, Guptill won't miss out and clips it over mid-wicket for a boundary. No batsman will miss out on such balls.
1.4 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Good carry! Hazlewood bowls it outside off on a length, Guptill lets it go. The ball bounces more and goes through at a nice height to Wade.
1.5 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Swing and a miss! Sprayed wide outside off, Martin goes after it but cannot connect. Josh was looking for some swing there.
1.6 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, FOUR! Crashed! A fuller length delivery outside off, Guptill throws his bat at it and gets it past cover-point for a boundary.
2.1 : M Starc to L Ronchi, Fuller outside off, Ronchi drives it off the back foot towards mid off.
2.2 : M Starc to L Ronchi, Slants it across on a good length, Ronchi looks to put it away but fails to connect.
2.3 : M Starc to L Ronchi, FOUR! In the gap! Full and outside off, Ronchi gets under it and looks to go over the off side. He gets it between point and cover-point for a boundary. That wasn't far away from the fielder.
2.4 : M Starc to L Ronchi, Full toss outside off, Ronchi looks to guide it away but gets an under edge to the keeper.
2.5 : M Starc to L Ronchi, Woah! Fuller outside off, driven to mid off by Ronchi. David Warner scores a direct hit and appeals. The ball ricochets wide of mid on but they do not go for the extra. Warner wants it to be referred but the umpire Richard Kettleborough is sure that Ronchi is not out. Replays confirm the same. What a decision, brilliant work.
2.6 : M Starc to M Guptill, Bouncer! Short ball on the stumps, Guptill ducks under it.
3.1 : J Hazlewood to L Ronchi, On a length outside off, guided to third man for a single.
3.2 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, FOUR! Nice timing! Brings this one into the batsman from outside off, Guptill pushes it back down the wicket. The timing is good as Warner rushes after it from mid off. He dives and almost stops the ball but ends up taking it with him over the ropes. A boundary results.
3.3 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Outside off on a length, left alone by Guptill.
3.4 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, BEATEN! Angles it on a length on off, Guptill looks to go over the infield but is beaten all ends up. He needs to be a touch careful, attempting such shots.
3.5 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Fullish on middle and leg, pushed towards mid on by the batsman for a single.
3.6 : J Hazlewood to L Ronchi, FOUR! Just over! Fuller outside off, Ronchi just lofts it over a leaping mid off fielder for a boundary. Had there been a taller fielder there, would have been a wicket.
4.1 : M Starc to M Guptill, Full toss outside off, Guptill just hits it to the short extra cover fielder. Should have hit that to the fence.
4.2 : M Starc to M Guptill, FOUR! Glorious! Fuller outside off, Guptill just leans into it and drives it through covers for a boundary.
4.3 : M Starc to M Guptill, Fuller and angling on the stumps, clipped towards mid on by the batsman.
4.4 : M Starc to M Guptill, Length ball outside off, Guptill drives it hard but finds the fielder at covers.
4.5 : M Starc to M Guptill, FOUR! Well timed! Starc bowls it full and around off, Guptill just presses forward and pushes it down the ground through mid off for a boundary. When you can hit such shots, you don't need to play the high risk shots.
4.6 : M Starc to M Guptill, Fuller outside off, pushed to covers for a single.
5.1 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, Good length on off, Guptill works it wide of mid on for a single.
5.2 : J Hazlewood to L Ronchi, Short and angling on the body, Ronchi comes down looking to hit it over the infield on the off side but misses it altogether.
5.3 : J Hazlewood to L Ronchi, Good length on off, guided down to third man for a single.
5.4 : J Hazlewood to M Guptill, OUT! Hazlewood strikes! Angles it on a good length on the stumps, Guptill looks to clip it through the leg side but gets a leading edge towards Maxwell at backward point. Glenn makes no mistake and that is a big wicket for the Australians. Martin is disappointed as he walks back to the pavilion.
Kane Williamson walks out to bat.
5.5 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Angles it on a length on off, Williamson gets in line and defends it watchfully.
5.6 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Back of a length on off, Williamson tucks it towards mid-wicket for a quick single. He gets off the mark. A good over for Australia comes to an end.
Pat Cummins is called into the attack.
6.1 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, FOUR! Risky! Fuller outside off, Williamson drives it square of the wicket through point for a boundary. He opened the face of the bat in time to get the placement right.
6.2 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Hurls it outside off on a length, left alone.
6.3 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Angles it on a good length, Williamson gets across and tucks it off the inside edge through backward square leg for a couple of runs.
6.4 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Another quick single as Williamson taps this one towards mid on for a single.
6.5 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, FOUR! Chipped! Cummins lands it on a length on the stumps, Ronchi gets under it and picks it over the mid-wicket fielder for a boundary. A typical Ronchi clip that.
6.6 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Short outside off, Ronchi mistimes hit cut towards mid off as the ball bounced more on him.
7.1 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Good length outside off, Williamson defends it watchfully.
7.2 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Fuller outside off, Williamson drives it towards point from his crease.
7.3 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Angles it on a length on off, Williamson gets across and defends it towards the leg side.
7.4 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Slants it on the stumps, worked through wide mid on for a couple of runs. Head was the fielder who gave the ball a chase from mid on.
7.5 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Fuller outside off, left alone by Kane.
7.6 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, FOUR! Short and on the body, Williamson gets under it and pulls it hard through square leg for a boundary. That was hit with a lot of disdain.
8.1 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, SIX! Hit on the up! Cummins comes in and angles a good length delivery on the stumps, Ronchi backs away and gives himself some room and lofts it over extra cover for a biggie. Sharp catch in the crowd as well.
8.2 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Slants it around off, Ronchi gets it through mid-wicket off the inside half for a single.
8.3 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Back of a length outside off, Williamson punches it towards covers.
8.4 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Short ball outside off, Williamson rides the bounce and keeps it down.
8.5 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Angles it on a good length, Williamson defends it watchfully.
The umpire has gone upstairs to check for a run out appeal against Ronchi. There's a huge mix-up there.
8.6 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, NOT OUT! What happened there? Cummins bowls it on a length on off, Williamson works it towards mid-wicket. He takes off for the single but spots that Ronchi is not responding and then looks to turn around. He slips in the process and his partner now decides to go for the run. Starc comes in from mid on and looks to underarm the throw at the striker's end but fails to hit the stumps. Wade has to dive to collect it and disturbs the stumps with his body. It is refe
John Hastings is introduced into the attack.
9.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Length ball outside off, Williamson looks to defend but is beaten all ends up.
9.2 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Turns it through mid-wicket for a single.
A little drizzle is visible out there. The groundsmen are getting ready with the covers.
9.3 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Ronchi stays back and defends it watchfully.
1117 local time - BAD NEWS FOLKS! The umpires have asked the players to leave due to the rain. We can just hope that it is a passing shower and we get a full game.
1215 local time - The rains have not relented. We will have the next update at 1315 local time. The wait prolongs....
1252 local time - GOOD NEWS! The rains have spared us for now. The covers are being taken off. The game will resume at 1310 local time. It will be a 46-OVERS-per-side-game. The innings break has been reduced to 30 minutes.
Updated rules - 1 bowler can bowl 10 overs. 4 bowlers can bowl 9 overs. Powerplay 1 (1-9), Powerplay 2 (10-37), Powerplay 3 (38-46). Australia's target will be adjusted by DLS method.
The players are making their way out in the middle. Luke Ronchi and Kane Williamson will resume the batting for New Zealand while John Hastings will continue with the ball.
Powerplay 2 has been signaled. A maximum of four fielders are now allowed outside the circle till the end of 37th over.
9.4 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Bowls a fuller length ball outside off, Ronchi looks to drive from his crease but is beaten.
9.5 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, A tad short outside off, Ronchi stays back and defends it towards point.
9.6 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, A touch fuller this time, Ronchi angles it towards point and takes a single.
Pat Cummins to bowl from the other end. There are covers placed near the sightscreen and the batsman wants it to be displaced.
10.1 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, A tad short on middle, tucked towards mid-wicket for a single.
10.2 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Back of a length outside off, dabbed down to third man for a single.
10.3 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Shorter in length outside off, Ronchi ducks under it.
10.4 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, FOUR! Neatly done! Angles it on the stumps, on a fuller length, Ronchi just lofts it over the mid on region for a boundary. That was hit as straight as an arrow.
10.5 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Back of a length outside off, pushed towards point by the batsman.
10.6 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Good stop, Wade! Slants one on middle and leg, Ronchi looks to pull but gets it off his gloves. The ball rolls to the left of the keeper who dives and stops it from going through.
11.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Bowls it outside off, Williamson defends it watchfully.
11.2 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Worked through mid-wicket for a single.
Mid off drops back.
11.3 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, FOUR! More runs for Ronchi. Angles it on the stumps, Ronchi works it off his pads through backward square leg. Starc hares after it and looks to stop the ball near the ropes. Fails to do so and a boundary results.
11.4 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Ronchi slaps this length ball outside off, down to long off for a single.
11.5 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Slants it on the stumps, Williamson clips it down to fine leg for a single.
11.6 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Excellent work! Good length outside off, Ronchi looks to punch it through covers. Henriques though at short extra cover dives to his left and makes a terrific stop.
12.1 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Fuller outside off, driven nicely to mid off by Williamson.
12.2 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, A tad short outside off, glided to third man for a single.
12.3 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, SIX! What a hit! Cummins angles it on the stumps, Ronchi makes room and just flays it over backward point for a maximum. There was a fielder in the deep but the ball sailed over his head.
12.4 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, FOUR! Almost a stunner! Shorter in length outside off, Ronchi moves across to hook it. The ball goes off the gloves down to the fine leg fence. Wade dived to his left but could not stop the ball.
50-run stand between Luke Ronchi and Kane Williamson!
12.5 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Shorter in length on off, worked towards mid on for a single by Ronchi.
12.6 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Tucks this one through mid-wicket for a single.
13.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Edged! Outside off on a length, Williamson throws his bat at it. He gets an outside edge which flies down to third man for a single.
13.2 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Fuller one, slower in pace, Ronchi is early into his drive and is beaten all ends up.
13.3 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, FOUR! Played Ronchi! Length ball outside off, Ronchi looks to drive but gets an outside edge. The ball flies down to third man for a boundary. He brings up his fifty, he will want to make it a big one.
4th ODI fifty for Luke Ronchi!
13.4 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Wide outside off on a length, Ronchi mistimes his cut back down the wicket.
13.5 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Goes wide of the crease and angles it on the stumps, Ronchi stays back and defends it.
13.6 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Sprays it wide outside off on a length, asking for a drive, Ronchi obliges but cannot put bat to ball.
14.1 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Fuller on the stumps, Williamson looks to clip but gets it off his pads towards fine leg for a single. 100 up for New Zealand.
14.2 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Shorter length outside off, Ronchi ducks under it and lets it go.
14.3 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, FOUR! Smashed! Cummins bowls it on the stumps, Williamson makes room and crashes it through extra cover for a boundary. He is playing a gem of a knock here.
14.4 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, Dropped! Shorter in length outside off, Ronchi looks to drag it through mid-wicket but mistimes it. Starc goes to his right from mid on but does not hold onto it. That should have been taken.
14.5 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, FOUR! Adding insult to injury! Shorter in length around off, Ronchi looks to give himself room and plays a tennis forehand over mid on for a boundary.
14.6 : Pat Cummins to L Ronchi, SIX! Ronchi is not stopping here! Length ball from Cummins, Ronchi gets under it and just lofts it over long off for a maximum. This is a serious assault from Luke. 15 runs from the over, with that drop. Cummins has forgettable figures right now. 5-0-52-0!
15.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Lands it outside off on a fuller length, Williamson dabs it to third man for a single.
15.2 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, Angles it on a length on off, Ronchi pushes it through point for a single.
15.3 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Slower length ball outside off, Williamson again dabs it to third man for a run. Easy as you like.
15.4 : J Hastings to L Ronchi, OUT! End of Ronchi fireworks for today! Hastings goes wide of the crease and angles it outside off on a fuller length, Ronchi looks to go hard but does not keep it down. Glenn Maxwell at point takes the catch and pumps his fists in joy. His second catch of the day. The drop has not cost Australia much. Hastings strikes and Ronchi would feel he should have done better. But that is the way he plays the game. The Kiwis have dropped Tom Latham for him.
Ross Taylor makes his way out to the middle.
15.5 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Fuller outside off, Taylor gets across and defends it off the inner half.
15.6 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Good length outside off, Taylor looks to cut it hard but fails to make contact.
Mitchell Starc called back on for a bowl.
16.1 : M Starc to K Williamson, Back of a length outside off, punched through covers for a single. That was hit on the up.
16.2 : M Starc to R Taylor, Slants it on a good length, Taylor defends it.
16.3 : M Starc to R Taylor, Angled across the batsman, on a length, Taylor lets it go through.
16.4 : M Starc to R Taylor, Outside off on a length, Ross defends it watchfully.
16.5 : M Starc to R Taylor, Angles it on a length, Taylor looks to dab it through but gets an inside edge onto his pads.
16.6 : M Starc to R Taylor, A tad short on the body, Taylor turns it through mid-wicket for a single to get off the mark.
17.1 : J Hastings to R Taylor, FOUR! Brilliant shot! Fuller outside off, Taylor comes forward and drives it through extra cover for a majestic boundary. That was hit superbly by the batsman.
17.2 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Angles it on a fuller length but just around off, Taylor gets across and defends it to the right of the bowler.
17.3 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Edged! Outside off on a length, Taylor flashes it down to third man for a single.
17.4 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Shorter outside off, Williamson mistimes his cut towards point.
17.5 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Outside off on a length, dabbed down to third man for a single.
17.6 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Goes wide of the crease and angles it fuller outside off, Taylor comes forward and drives it through covers for a single.
18.1 : M Starc to R Taylor, Fuller outside off, Taylor drives it hard through cover-point for a single.
18.2 : M Starc to K Williamson, Slants it on a length, Williamson defends it watchfully.
18.3 : M Starc to K Williamson, Too full on the pads, Williamson clips it towards mid on. There is a shy at the bowler's end by the substitute but no harm done.
18.4 : M Starc to R Taylor, Short and outside off, Taylor looks to cut it through but finds the fielder at point.
18.5 : M Starc to R Taylor, FOUR! This is top batting from the Kiwis! Short and wide outside off, Taylor this time goes even harder and gets it over the point fielder for a boundary.
18.6 : M Starc to R Taylor, WIDE! Slings this down the leg side on a fuller length. Taylor lets it go and Wade has to dive to his left to stop it. Starc does not look himself here. Struggling for some rhythm.
M Starc to R Taylor, Nice bowling! Hurls it outside off on a length, Taylor comes forward to defend but the ball whizzes past the outside edge. Good comeback by the bowler.
Josh Hazlewood returns for a spell.
19.1 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Angles it on a good length outside off, Williamson turns it towards mid-wicket for a single.
19.2 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Hurls it outside off, Taylor comes forward and defends it.
19.3 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Bowls it outside off on a length, Taylor looks to cut it through but misses. He has played and missed a few here.
19.4 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Lands it outside off on a good length, Taylor defends it watchfully.
19.5 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Fuller length ball outside off, Taylor comes forward and defends it.
19.6 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Shorter in length outside off, Taylor looks to dab it through to third man but fails to connect. This one bounced more on him and hence he could not connect.
Travis Head introduced into the attack. Interesting call from Smith. These two should counter the off spinner without much fuss. Let's see how he goes. Maybe looking to fill in some overs?
20.1 : T Head to K Williamson, Floats it around off, turned through mid on for a single.
20.2 : T Head to R Taylor, Taylor gets forward and turns it towards the leg side.
20.3 : T Head to R Taylor, Gets down and sweeps it to long leg for a single.
20.4 : T Head to K Williamson, Flatter on the pads, Williamson turns it towards square leg from his crease.
20.5 : T Head to K Williamson, Lands it outside leg, Kane turns it towards long leg for a single.
20.6 : T Head to R Taylor, Fuller one on off, Taylor gets down to long on for a single,
21.1 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, FOUR! Nicely done! Shorter outside off, Taylor cuts it nicely behind point. The third man fielder, Starc puts in a desperate dive after going to his right but cannot stop the ball. The runs keep flowing.
21.2 : J Hazlewood to R Taylor, Taylor gets across and turns it through mid-wicket for a single.
21.3 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Fuller outside off, Williamson looks to clip at first but then defends it towards mid on.
21.4 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Shorter in length on middle and leg, Williamson ducks under it and lets it go over him.
21.5 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Angles it on a good length, Williamson plays close to his body and looks to take a quick single but is sent back.
Interesting point by Simon Doull. They are not giving Williamson any room to dab nor allowing him to work everything on the leg side for a quick single.
21.6 : J Hazlewood to K Williamson, Slants it on a good length, Williamson gets outside the line and tucks it through backward square leg for a couple of runs.
22.1 : T Head to R Taylor, Fuller on middle, Taylor comes down and clips it through mid on for a single.
0.0 : It is drizzling again. The umpires have decided to continue.
22.2 : T Head to K Williamson, Bowls it on the stumps, Williamson makes room to drive but hits it towards extra cover.
22.3 : T Head to K Williamson, Lands it outside off, Williamson dabs it towards short third man. Hastings was a bit lazy to bend and stop it and allows the second.
22.4 : T Head to K Williamson, Fuller on middle, Williamson defends it watchfully.
22.5 : T Head to K Williamson, Williamson comes forward and drives it to the left of the bowler.
22.6 : T Head to K Williamson, Flatter on middle, stops a touch on the batsman, Williamson is surprised as he defends it towards the leg side.
Moises Henriques comes on for a bowl.
23.1 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Bowls it around off, Taylor comes forward and turns it towards the leg side.
23.2 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Fuller delivery into the stumps, Ross digs it out towards wide mid on.
23.3 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Another fuller delivery outside off, Ross Taylor drives it straight back to the bowler. Henriques stretches his right leg out and makes a really fine stop.
23.4 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Angling into the hips, Ross Taylor hops a bit and works it towards square leg for a single.
23.5 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Good length delivery outside off, dabbed past backward point for a single.
23.6 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Short delivery outside off, Ross Taylor stands tall and tries to defend it. Gets an outside edge towards third man for a single.
24.1 : T Head to R Taylor, Floated outside off, Taylor comes down the track and eases it towards long on for a single.
24.2 : T Head to K Williamson, Quicker delivery outside off, Williamson makes room to slog but then decides to defend it.
24.3 : T Head to K Williamson, Flatter delivery around off, Williamson pushes it towards the fielder at covers.
24.4 : T Head to K Williamson, FOUR! Good shot! Fuller into the pads, Kane Williamson kneels down and slog sweeps it over the square leg region for a boundary.
24.5 : T Head to K Williamson, Kane camps back and punches it towards long on for a single.
24.6 : T Head to R Taylor, Drops this one around middle, Ross Taylor comes down the track and drives it towards long on for a single to keep the strike.
25.1 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Angling in from a length outside off, Taylor shuffles a bit and clips it straight towards the fielder at mid-wicket.
25.2 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Fuller delivery into the stumps, Taylor clips it towards deep square leg for a single.
25.3 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Leg bye! Length ball around off, Williamson shuffles a bit and tries to clip it. He fails to make contact and gets rapped high on the pads. The ball goes on the leg side and the batsmen scamper across for a leg bye.
25.4 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Fuller length delivery around off, Ross Taylor mistimes it towards mid on yet picks up a quick single.
25.5 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Short and wide outside off, Williamson slaps it towards the fielder at sweeper cover. A single is taken.
25.6 : M Henriques to R Taylor, FOUR! Good shot! Another short delivery into the body, Ross Taylor pulls it beautifully through the square leg region for a boundary.
26.1 : T Head to K Williamson, Comes around the wicket and bowls this one outside leg, Williamson comes down the track and clips it towards the mid-wicket fielder.
26.2 : T Head to K Williamson, Williamson dances down the track and creams it straight to the fielder at extra cover.
26.3 : T Head to K Williamson, Williamson stands deep in his crease and clips it through the mid-wicket region for a single.
50-run stand between Taylor and Williamson.
26.4 : T Head to R Taylor, A short delivery into the pads, Taylor clips it towards square leg for a single.
26.5 : T Head to K Williamson, SIX! Over the ropes! Fuller around off, Kane Williamson gets a bit forward and smacks that over the mid-wicket region for half a dozen.
26.6 : T Head to K Williamson, Quicker delivery outside off, Williamson goes for the cut but he fails to make contact. Stifled appeal turned down.
Pat Cummins returns for a bowl.
27.1 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Good length delivery outside off, Ross Taylor tries to punch it on the off side. Gets an inside onto his pads and then the ball rolls towards the mid-wicket region. A single taken.
27.2 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Fuller delivery outside off, Williamson drives it straight to the fielder at short cover.
27.3 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Good length delivery outside off, Kane tries to defend it. Gets it off the outer half to third man for a single.
27.4 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Fuller delivery outside off, Taylor flashes his square drive but finds the fielder at backward point.
27.5 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Good length delivery around off, Taylor pushes it back to the bowler.
27.6 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Very full on the stumps, Taylor digs it out watchfully.
Time for Drinks! The Kiwis are going well but will know that they will have to up the ante. The Australians for a change, have lacked intensity on the field today. They would look to take wickets and keep the runs down with the rain falling as well.
Change of ends for Moises Henriques!
28.1 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Slower delivery on a shorter length down the leg side, Kane Williamson pulls it towards fine leg for a single. It's been a fine knock from the Kiwi skipper.
0.0 : 30th ODI fifty for Kane Williamson.
28.2 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Good length delivery outside off, Ross Taylor pushes it back to the bowler.
28.3 : M Henriques to R Taylor, A bit short outside off, Ross Taylor mistimes his cut towards the fielder at point.
28.4 : M Henriques to R Taylor, The batsman works it down the leg side. One run added to the total.
28.5 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Fuller delivery into the stumps, Williamson clips it towards the fielder at mid-wicket.
28.6 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Good length delivery angling into the batsman, Williamson makes room and defends it towards the fielder at point.
29.1 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Length delivery into the pads, Ross Taylor fails to clip it. Gets a faint edge into the pads. A stifled appeal by Cummins is turned down.
29.2 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Short delivery into the batsman, Ross Taylor ducks under it.
29.3 : Pat Cummins to R Taylor, Back of a length delivery outside off, Taylor slashes hard at it. Gets a bottom edge to it and the ball goes towards the fielder at third man for a single.
29.4 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Fuller delivery outside off, Williamson opens the face of the bat and guides it to the fielder at slip.
29.5 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Another good length delivery around off, Williamson defends it towards the fielder at point.
29.6 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, Another good length delivery outside off, Williamson runs it down towards the fielder at third man for a single.
30.1 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Short delivery into the batsman, Kane Williamson camps back and pulls it over the front of square leg region. Head from deep mid-wicket goes to his right and makes a fine stop to save two runs for his team.
30.2 : M Henriques to K Williamson, FOUR! Betters it this time! Another short one, this time outside off. Williamson stands deep in his crease and pulls this one brutally over the mid-wicket region for a boundary.
30.3 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Good length delivery into the batsman, Williamson comes down the track and pushes it towards long on for a single.
30.4 : M Henriques to R Taylor, FOUR! Elegant! Good length delivery around off, Taylor shuffles across and uses his wrists to clip it beautifully through the square leg region for a boundary.
30.5 : M Henriques to R Taylor, Fuller delivery outside off, Taylor drives it uppishly towards mid on for a single.
30.6 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Williamson goes leg side and Henriques sees that. Follows him and cramps him for room. Williamson manages to pull it towards the fielder at mid-wicket.
John Hastings is called back for a bowl.
31.1 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Length delivery outside off, Taylor prods forward and drives it through covers for a single.
31.2 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Fuller delivery outside off, Williamson swings his bat at it. Gets it off the inside edge towards the mid-wicket region. Warner has a shy at the non-striker's end but misses. Henriques who was backing up reacts late which lets the batsmen take the single eventually.
31.3 : J Hastings to R Taylor, The batsman guides it to third man. They pick up a single.
31.4 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Length delivery outside off, Williamson shuffles way across and tries to play the paddle. Fails to make contact and the ball goes towards the keeper. Wade has a needless shy at the non-striker's end but misses.
31.5 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Williamson stands tall in his crease and pushes it straight to the fielder at mid-off.
31.6 : J Hastings to K Williamson, FOUR! Up and over! Another length delivery around off, Williamson shuffles across and lofts this one just over the long off fielder for a boundary.
Mitchell Starc is back into the attack.
32.1 : M Starc to R Taylor, Good length delivery outside off, Taylor defends it beside the pitch on the off side for a single. 200 up for New Zealand.
32.2 : M Starc to K Williamson, Change of angle for Starc as he comes around the wicket this time. Back of a length delivery into the body, Williamson defends it towards the fielder at point.
32.3 : M Starc to K Williamson, Leg bye! Slower delivery into the pads, Williamson shuffles across and tries to play the scoop. Misses it completely and the ball goes off his pads towards the short fine leg region. A leg bye is taken.
32.4 : M Starc to R Taylor, Short and wide outside off, Taylor cuts it straight towards the point fielder who leaps to make a fine stop.
32.5 : M Starc to R Taylor, FOUR! Fuller delivery into the stumps, Taylor clips it beautifully through the mid-wicket region. Hazlewood gives it a chase from mid on. Tries stopping it with a dive but carries himself into the ropes. The umpire goes upstairs to check and the replays show that Hazlewood's leg was touching the ropes when he made contact with the ball. Boundary signaled.
32.6 : M Starc to R Taylor, Full length delivery into the pads, Taylor fails to clip it on the leg side and gets rapped on the pads.
33.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, FOUR! Fantastic! Back of a length delivery outside off, Williamson slaps that over the backward point region for a boundary.
33.2 : J Hastings to K Williamson, SIX! Williamson is on the charge! Fuller delivery around off, Williamson swings at it with all his might and gets it over the mid-wicket region for half a dozen.
33.3 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Williamson drags it towards the mid on region for a single.
33.4 : J Hastings to R Taylor, Good length delivery outside off, Taylor pushes this one straight to the fielder at covers.
33.5 : J Hastings to R Taylor, OUT! Taylor holes out! Length delivery around off at a slower pace, Taylor tries to go over mid on for a biggie. Miscues it completely and the ball takes a leading edge and goes towards wide mid off. Henriques from mid off goes to his left and pouches it safely. Ross Taylor has to walk back to the hut. The 99-run stand comes to an end.
Neil Broom is the new man in.
33.6 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Another slower delivery, fuller around off. Williamson drives it towards long off for a single to keep strike.
Moises Henriques is called back for a bowl.
34.1 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Good length delivery around off, Williamson tries to clip it on the leg side but gets an inside edge which hits him on the box. Ouch.
34.2 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Another good length delivery around off, Williamson dabs it towards the fielder at backward point.
34.3 : M Henriques to K Williamson, Length delivery outside off, Williamson eases it towards long on for a single.
34.4 : M Henriques to N Broom, Good length delivery angling into the batsman, Broom tries to clip it on the leg side. Ends up getting a leading edge towards the fielder at covers.
34.5 : M Henriques to N Broom, Angling into the hips, Broom works it towards the fielder at mid-wicket.
34.6 : M Henriques to N Broom, Fuller delivery outside off, Broom shuffles a bit and flicks it straight to the fielder at mid-wicket. Brilliant over, just the run from it.
Change of ends for Mitchell Starc.
35.1 : M Starc to K Williamson, Fuller delivery outside off, Williamson carves it through the point region. Head goes to his left from sweeper cover and cuts it off. Saves a run for his team.
35.2 : M Starc to N Broom, That was close! Fuller delivery outside off, Broom tries to block it out. Gets beaten by the pace and the ball just whizzes past the off pole.
35.3 : M Starc to N Broom, Full toss around off, Broom punches it towards the fielder at mid off for a single.
35.4 : M Starc to K Williamson, Fuller delivery outside off, Williamson lofts it over covers for a single. He did not get it off the middle of the bat.
35.5 : M Starc to N Broom, Yorker right on the money, Broom blocks it out towards the backward point region. They scamper across for a single as Maxwell has a shy at the non-striker's end.
35.6 : M Starc to K Williamson, Low full toss on the stumps, Williamson defends it towards the fielder at mid-wicket and calls for a single. The fielder has a shy at the non-striker's end but he misses it.
Change of ends for John Hastings.
36.1 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Short delivery outside off, Williamson pulls it over the mid-wicket region for a couple. This also is his highest score against Australia.
36.2 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Good length delivery outside off, Williamson dabs it towards third man for a single.
36.3 : J Hastings to N Broom, Fuller delivery around off, Broom carves it through the backward point region for a single.
36.4 : J Hastings to K Williamson, FOUR! Dragged on! Slower delivery on a shorter length, following the batsman down the leg side. Williamson just sits low and pulls it through the backward square leg region for a boundary.
36.5 : J Hastings to K Williamson, Dug in short down the leg side, Williamson ducks under it. Luckily, the umpire does not single it as a wide.
36.6 : J Hastings to K Williamson, SIX! Shot! Another short delivery outside off, Williamson smashes that one over the mid-wicket region for a maximum. Shaun Pollock on air mentions that had Travis Head been in the line of the ropes then he could have had half a chance.
Powerplay 3 signaled. Five fielders are now allowed outside the circle.
37.1 : M Starc to N Broom, Short delivery outside off, Broom tries to play the upper cut but fails to make contact.
37.2 : M Starc to N Broom, Excellent yorker right on the stumps, Broom digs it out back to the bowler.
37.3 : M Starc to N Broom, Another steaming yorker right on the stumps, Broom digs it out towards the backward square leg region for a single.
37.4 : M Starc to K Williamson, Slower delivery on a length outside off, Williamson dabs it towards the fielder at backward point.
37.5 : M Starc to K Williamson, Full toss on the stumps, Williamson clips it towards the mid-wicket region for a single.
37.6 : M Starc to N Broom, Fuller delivery around off, Broom drives it through the cover region for a single.
38.1 : J Hastings to N Broom, Good length delivery and angling into the stumps, Broom plays that really fine past the keeper. Starc makes a fine stop after running to his left from third man. The batsmen run a couple.
38.2 : J Hastings to N Broom, FOUR! Sloppy fielding! Short delivery into the batsman, Broom pulls it over the wide mid-on region. Henriques from long on goes to his right and dives to stop it. The ball goes under him and into the fence.
38.3 : J Hastings to N Broom, Slower delivery full toss outside off, Broom shuffles way across for a paddle towards short fine leg for a single. Starc has a shy at the striker's end but he fails to make contact.
38.4 : J Hastings to K Williamson, FOUR! Premeditation works this time! Fuller into the stumps, Williamson shuffles across and plays a predetermined paddle scoop over the short fine leg region for a boundary.
38.5 : J Hastings to K Williamson, First ODI century against Australia! Williamson pushes it towards mid off for a single. Another superb knock from the Kiwi skipper and he is leading his team from the front.
9th ODI ton for Kane Williamson.
38.6 : J Hastings to N Broom, Slower delivery outside off, Broom tries to guide it really fine but he fails to make contact.
Pat Cummins returns for a burst.
Oh dear! There is a run out appeal at the bowler's end against Williamson. He looks to be a goner here.
39.1 : Pat Cummins to K Williamson, OUT! Williamson departs! Very full outside off, Williamson throws his bat at it and gets it straight to the fielder at point. Moises Henriques the fielder there, throws it quickly back to the bowler. Cummins collects it well and throws it back on the stumps. Williamson is struggling to cover his ground as he did not put in a dive. The umpire goes upstairs to check the run out. Replays show that Williamson was well out of his crease. The Kiwi skipper has to dep
0.0 : Jimmy Neesham is the new man in. Surprised that Corey Anderson has not come out to bat.
39.2 : Pat Cummins to N Broom, Broom clips it through the mid-wicket region for a single.
39.3 : Pat Cummins to J Neesham, Short delivery into the body, Neesham ducks under it.
39.4 : Pat Cummins to J Neesham, Beautiful stuff from Cummins! Another short delivery and this one is right up on the throat of Neesham. He just manages to evade it and the batsmen run a single.
39.5 : Pat Cummins to N Broom, Broom drives it straight to the fielder at mid on.
39.6 : Pat Cummins to N Broom, Fuller delivery around off, Broom drives it through the cover-region for a single to keep strike.
Josh Hazlewood is called in for a bowl.
40.1 : J Hazlewood to N Broom, OUT! Hazlewood strikes rightaway! Fuller delivery in the line of the stumps, Broom takes his front leg out of the way and goes for the slog. Gets the elevation on it but fails to get the distance as the ball flies towards the deep mid-wicket region. Glenn Maxwell gets under it and takes a fine catch. The Kiwis have lost a couple of quick wickets now.
0.0 : Corey Anderson walks out to bat.
40.2 : J Hazlewood to J Neesham, Slower delivery and angling away, Neesham gets behind it and defends it neatly.
40.3 : J Hazlewood to J Neesham, That's a peach! Length delivery and angling away, Neesham tries to defend it but fails to judge it even a bit. The ball whizzes past the outside edge and goes straight to the keeper.
40.4 : J Hazlewood to J Neesham, Neesham drives it off the bottom half towards mid off for a single.
40.5 : J Hazlewood to C Anderson, Good length delivery around off, Corey Anderson defends it towards the fielder at point.
40.6 : J Hazlewood to C Anderson, A bit wide outside off, Anderson punches it past the diving point fielder for a couple. An excellent over from Hazlewood comes to an end.
41.1 : Pat Cummins to J Neesham, Fires this one down the leg side, Neesham fails to clip it fine. The ball kisses the pads before going to the keeper.
41.2 : Pat Cummins to J Neesham, Fuller delivery into the stumps, Neesham flicks it through the backward square leg region for a single.
41.3 : Pat Cummins to C Anderson, Short delivery into the body, Anderson sways away from the line of the delivery and ends up finding himself on the floor.
41.4 : Pat Cummins to C Anderson, SIX! Brute power! Another short delivery around off this time. Corey Anderson goes for the pull, gets a top edge on it and the ball flies over the fine leg region for half a dozen.
41.5 : Pat Cummins to C Anderson, OUT! Cummins strikes again! Angling in from a length around off, Corey Anderson tries making room for himself and tries to go for a biggie. The ball balloons towards the backward point region. Henriques back paddles and takes a fine catch to send Corey Anderson back to the hut.
Mitchell Santner comes in to bat.
41.6 : Pat Cummins to J Neesham, Short delivery into the body, Neesham clips it towards the mid-wicket region for a single.
42.1 : J Hazlewood to J Neesham, Fuller delivery outside off, Neesham throws his bat at it. Gets a thick edge over the backward point region for a couple.
42.2 : J Hazlewood to J Neesham, OUT! Another one bites the dust! Fuller delivery outside off, Neesham swings his bat at it. Gets no timing on it and the ball flies towards the fielder at long on. David Warner gets under it and takes a fine catch. Neesham's struggle in the middle comes to an end and the Black Caps sink further.
Adam Milne is the next man in.
42.3 : J Hazlewood to A Milne, FOUR! What-a-way to get off the mark! Fuller delivery around off, Milne drives it powerfully through the extra cover region for a boundary.
42.4 : J Hazlewood to A Milne, Shorter length delivery outside off, Milne tries to flay at it but fails to make contact.
42.5 : J Hazlewood to A Milne, Angling into the batsman, Milne shuffles a bit and clips it towards backward square leg for a single.
42.6 : J Hazlewood to M Santner, Leg bye! Good length delivery into the pads, Santner fails to clip it fine. Gets rapped on the pads and the batsmen run across for a leg bye as the ball goes towards square leg.
Mitchell Starc is back for a bowl.
43.1 : M Starc to M Santner, FOUR! Easy pickings! Darts a full toss down the leg side, Santner gets bat on it and guides that really fine through the fine leg region for a boundary.
43.2 : M Starc to M Santner, Another full toss outside off, Santner punches it through covers for a single.
43.3 : M Starc to A Milne, Length delivery outside off, Milne lofts it towards the long off fielder for a single.
43.4 : M Starc to M Santner, Another full toss outside off, Santner pushes it towards mid off for a single.
43.5 : M Starc to A Milne, Full toss outside off, Milne drives it towards sweeper cover for a single.
43.6 : M Starc to M Santner, Wide! Way down the leg side this time, Santner tries to tickle it fine but fails to make contact. The umpire signals it as a wide.
M Starc to M Santner, Fuller delivery outside off, Santner drives it towards mid off for a single to keep strike.
44.1 : J Hazlewood to M Santner, Low full toss outside off, Santner goes way across and drives it towards long off of the toe end for a single.
44.2 : J Hazlewood to A Milne, FOUR! Milne makes the bad ball vanish! Short delivery into the body, Milne pulls it through the backward square leg region for a boundary.
44.3 : J Hazlewood to A Milne, OUT! Milne cannot find the gap this time! He instead finds the fielder. Short delivery into the batsman, Milne pulls it powerfully but straight towards the fielder at deep mid-wicket. Maxwell hops a bit and takes a fine catch to send Milne back who was looking dangerous.
Tim Southee walks out next.
44.4 : J Hazlewood to M Santner, OUT! Brilliant catch, skipper! Fuller delivery outside off, Santner drives it uppishly towards the extra-cover region. Smith leaps to his left and takes a sensational catch. Hazlewood gets his 3rd ODI fifer in the process. Santner has to walk back to the hut. Hat-trick ball is coming up..
Trent Boult comes out to bat to face the hat-trick ball.
44.5 : J Hazlewood to T Boult, Good length delivery outside off, Boult tries to feel at it but he fails to make contact.
44.6 : J Hazlewood to T Boult, OUT! Hazlewood gets his sixth! Good length delivery around off, Boult tries to poke at it. Gets a thick outside edge and the ball flies towards the keeper. Wade makes no mistake and Hazlewood ends with career-best figures of 9-0-52-6. NEW ZEALAND ARE BUNDLED OUT FOR 291!
What an effort from Australia! They have come back superbly taking 7 for 37 to bowl out the Kiwis. The fact that there was still an over to go just puts the collapse in perspective. Josh Hazlewood was the star for them, taking his third five-wicket haul in ODIs. They will be really pleased with their efforts as New Zealand had got off to a good start with a 99-run stand between Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor steadying them.
Williamson fell just after getting to his first ODI ton against Australia. They were going well as the Aussie bowlers struggled to keep the scoring down. Wickets fell in a heap towards the end and the Kiwis lost the plot completely. Steven Smith will be happy with the way they have roared back in the game and will bank on his batting line-up to come good. Their bowling was far from ideal today until Hazlewood stepped up to register his best figures in ODIs. Despite the collapse, the Black Caps w
Oh dear! Just as we write that, it has started to rain. So hope that it clears out soon and we can resume with the chase as early as possible. Fingers crossed.
1630 local time - The rain hasn't relented yet. The next update will be at 1730 local time. Stay tuned...
1647 local time - The rain has stopped and the covers are coming off. Cricket Australia have tweeted that "Play will resume at 1715 local time if there is no further rain. Revised target to come."
1650 local time - We will have a 33-over game with the target for Australia being 235. Australia will feel good about this or will they think it is unfair on them? On the updated rules - Three bowlers can bowl seven overs, while two bowlers can bowl six. On the field restrictions, Powerplay 1 (1-7), Powerplay 2 (8-27), Powerplay 3 (28-33).
0.0 : It's time for the chase! The two Australian openers are David Warner and Aaron Finch. New Zealand begin the proceedings with Tim Southee. A slip in place. Here we go...
0.1 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Southee sprays it wide outside off, Warner comes down the wicket but lets the ball go through safely.
0.2 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Close! Too full on the stumps, Warner clips it past the short mid-wicket fielder. The timing is good and they get three runs.
0.3 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Slants it on the stumps, clipped through square leg for a single.
0.4 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Outside off on a good length, Warner taps it towards the off side.
0.5 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Shorter in length but on middle and leg, Warner goes for the pull but seems to have missed it. The players appeal but the umpire says no. Interestingly, he did not signal it a wide as well.
0.6 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Warner taps this one towards covers for a single.
Trent Boult to bowl from the other end with the second new ball. He has two slips in place.
1.1 : T Boult to D Warner, Shorter in length just outside off, Warner looks to pull it but gets an inside edge onto his body. He wants a single but is sent back in time.
1.2 : T Boult to D Warner, FOUR! Poor ball! On the pads, Warner tucks it to the fine leg fence for a boundary. Easy runs, these.
The second slip fielder moves out of the slip cordon.
1.3 : T Boult to D Warner, Back of a length on the stumps, Warner tucks it towards the leg side.
1.4 : T Boult to D Warner, Lands it outside off, Warner pushes it back down the wicket.
1.5 : T Boult to D Warner, Edged! Outside off on a good length, Warner looks to defend but is taken back by the bounce. He gets it towards covers off the edge for a single.
1.6 : T Boult to A Finch, Back of a length outside off, Finch taps it to covers and takes off. Santner fields the ball and fires a throw at the bowler's end but misses. Finch had made it in though.
A short cover is in place now.
2.1 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Slants it on the pads, Finch fails to clip it neatly. The ball rolls off the pads towards the leg side for a leg bye.
2.2 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Another one on the pads, Warner this time tucks it off his pads towards backward square leg for a single.
2.3 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Shorter in length outside off, Finch looks to clear England with his pull but fails to put bat to ball.
Square leg goes back now.
2.4 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Back of a length outside off, Finch taps it towards point.
2.5 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Angles it on a length just around off, Finch punches it hard into the wicket. The ball bounces over the bowler but the mid off fielder cuts it off.
2.6 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Slants it on off, Finch eases it down to long on for a single.
3.1 : T Boult to A Finch, Boult goes around the wicket, angles it on a good length, Finch looks to flay it away but misses.
3.2 : T Boult to A Finch, Length ball around off, Finch looks to go straight but the ball goes off the inner half over mid on. The ball plugs in the outfield. Two runs taken.
There is a difference in the approach by both the batsmen there out in the middle and that is pointed out by the Ricky Ponting on air. David Warner stays forward and looks to impose himself on the bowling. Aaron Finch, on the other hand, makes the full use of his crease, stays back and then looks to attack the bowling.
3.3 : T Boult to A Finch, Edged! Length ball outside off, Finch looks to punch but gets an inside edge toward short fine leg where the fielder stops it with a dive.
3.4 : T Boult to D Warner, Warner turns it towards the leg side for a single.
3.5 : T Boult to A Finch, Finch punches this one through covers for a single.
3.6 : T Boult to D Warner, Outside off, left alone by Warner.
The floodlights have been turned on.
4.1 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Finch punches this one towards point from his crease.
4.2 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Bowls it outside off, Finch throws the kitchen sink at it but misses. Finch screams in pain and holds his left hamstring. Australia would hope that he is fit enough to last the tournament.
4.3 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Cuts this one towards backward point for a single.
A comparatively slow start from the Australian openers. Even the outfield is not supporting them well as it has slowed down a bit.
4.4 : Tim Southee to D Warner, SIX! BOOM! Shorter and just around off, Warner does not miss out and carves it over point for a maximum. Both his feet were off the ground when he played that shot but got superb connection. Shikhar Dhawan from India, plays that shot a lot. It was also in the Champions Trophy 2013 that he announced himself with the shot.
4.5 : Tim Southee to D Warner, Cutter this time from Southee at 117 kph, Warner taps it towards covers for a single. Smart batting.
4.6 : Tim Southee to A Finch, Good length on off, Finch defends it from his crease.
5.1 : T Boult to D Warner, OUT! Edged and gone! Shorter length outside off, Warner looks to go big coming down the wicket. He only manages to get a thick outside edge and Luke Ronchi accepts the catch with glee. Boult performs his best against Australia and he has begun well here. He has taken 25 wickets in 10 games against them.
0.0 : Steven Smith will bat at number 3! Can he guide his team home on his 28th birthday?
5.2 : T Boult to S Smith, Shorter length outside off, Smith looks to spank it through covers but fails to connect. Strange choice of shot, maybe the pressure of the chase?
5.3 : T Boult to S Smith, FOUR! Much, much, much better! Boult bowls it on a length outside off, Smith stands tall and punches it through covers for a boundary. Nice way to get off the mark.
5.4 : T Boult to S Smith, Shorter length outside off, Smith looks to pull it over the leg side but fails to connect.
5.5 : T Boult to S Smith, Boult goes over the wicket, hurls it on a length on the stumps, Smith shuffles and looks to clip it through but fails to connect. A stifled appeal turned down.
5.6 : T Boult to S Smith, FOUR! Top shot! Boult angles it outside off on a good length, Smith stands tall again and crunches it through covers for a boundary.
Adam Milne is introduced into the attack.
6.1 : A Milne to A Finch, Good length outside off, Finch mistimes his punch to short extra cover.
0.0 : A slight drizzle is back there. That is surely not something we want again.
6.2 : A Milne to A Finch, Fuller length outside off, Finch gets a bottom edge as he looks to punch it down the ground.
6.3 : A Milne to A Finch, OUT! Finch throws it away! Milne angles it on a length, Finch looks to clip it over mid-wicket but does not find the gap. The ball just lobs to Taylor at short mid-wicket who takes the catch easily. Smith is not happy with that but Finch has to walk back and with the rain falling, it is only going to make things harder.
Moises Henriques is the new man in.
6.4 : A Milne to M Henriques, Good length outside off, Henriques looks to defend but is beaten all ends up.
6.5 : A Milne to M Henriques, Hurls it outside off, Henriques comes forward to defend but gets an inside edge towards the leg side for a single.
A mini-conference between Southee, Williamson and the bowler.
6.6 : A Milne to S Smith, Fuller outside off, Smith looks to drive it through covers but finds the fielder inside the ring.
Powerplay 2 has been signaled. Now a maximum of four fielder are allowed outside the circle.
7.1 : T Boult to M Henriques, Shorter in length just outside off, Henriques defends it watchfully.
7.2 : T Boult to M Henriques, Slants it across on a length, Henriques lets it go through.
Simon Doull on air mentions that the Kiwi bowlers have bowled a lot more short balls and not allowed the Australians to go through. In the meanwhile, the rain just gets harder.
7.3 : T Boult to M Henriques, FOUR! Top edged! Shorter in length, Henriques goes for the pull but gets a top edge. The ball flies over the head of the keeper for a boundary.
7.4 : T Boult to M Henriques, Slants it across on a length, Moises looks to defend but is beaten all ends up.
7.5 : T Boult to M Henriques, FOUR! Handsome strike! Slants it on a shorter length again, Henriques this time is in control of his short-arm jab through mid-wicket for a boundary.
7.6 : T Boult to M Henriques, Dug in half way down the track, Henriques tucks it towards fine leg for a single.
8.1 : A Milne to M Henriques, Edged! Fuller outside off, Henriques looks to drive but gets an outside edge which rolls towards the keeper.
8.2 : A Milne to M Henriques, FOUR! Good shot! Shorter in length outside off, Henriques gets on top of it, controls his pull through backward square leg for a boundary.
8.3 : A Milne to M Henriques, Moises gets across and defends it.
Steven Smith was looking to walk off with the rain falling, only to be called back by the umpire.
8.4 : A Milne to M Henriques, Hurls it outside off, Henriques comes forward and defends it.
The second slip has been taken out and now we have only Ross Taylor standing at slip.
8.5 : A Milne to M Henriques, Edged! Good length outside off, Henriques looks to defend but gets an outside edge wide of Ross Taylor at first slip. He dives to his right, looks to stop but then withdraws his hand for some reason. The ball runs down to the third man fence.
8.6 : A Milne to M Henriques, OUT! Milne bowls it outside off on a length, Henriques looks to defend but gets an inside edge onto his pads. The ball lobs back to the bowler and he takes it easily. That is a big wicket and the sight of Moises Henriques walking back to the hut with the rain falling just sums up Australia's chase so far. They are now too far behind in the game and only the rain gods can save them from hereon.
1755 local time - And the players are walking back to the dressing rooms with Moises Henriques. Australia are now 3 down for 53. The chase is only going to get trickier from hereon. For that though, they will need the rain to stop. And now, maybe, they might be wishing for a heavy shower. 1848 is the cut-off time for the 20-over game. So let's keep our fingers crossed.
If this is reduced to a 20-over bash, Australia will need to chase down a target of 174. And that looks tough at the moment. Let's see. Stay tuned for more updates.
1820 local time - The rain is getting even more heavier and the possibility of the game starts fading every passing moment. For the game to resume at 1848, the shower needs to stop in about 10 minutes from now. So by all means, we are unlikely to have a game here.
So the thing we feared the most has happened, this game has BEEN ABANDONED DUE TO RAIN which means New Zealand and Australia will be sharing a point each for this match. The Kiwis will be really disappointed as they were looking really charged up in the second innings. Australia on the other hand, will be thanking the rain gods for saving them as it would have been a tough task for them after struggling at 53/3 when the rains stopped play.
So that's it from us for this game. We hope you enjoyed our coverage. Australia will feel that they have got out of jail while New Zealand will think that had the rain not come in, they would have won the game. Nothing can be changed now though. Time to move on, Sri Lanka will take on South Africa tomorrow for a game at 1030 local (0930 GMT) at The Oval. Do join us for all the action. Until then, it's goodbye and take care!