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THE FACTS
When is New Zealand vs Australia on and what time does it start? New Zealand vs Australia will take place on Friday 23rd February, 2024 – 06:10 (UK)
Where is New Zealand vs Australia taking place? New Zealand vs Australia will take place at Eden Park, Auckland
What channel is New Zealand vs Australia on in the UK? New Zealand vs Australia will be televised in the UK live on TNT Sports
Where can I stream New Zealand vs Australia in the UK? TNT Sports subscribers in the UK can stream New Zealand vs Australia live via discovery+.
THE LOWDOWN
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand thought they had Australia beaten with the tourists needing 32 from the final nine deliveries of the first T20i. But Adam Milne conceded 16 runs off the final three balls of his over, before Tim Southee failed to close things out, conceding the boundary required by Australia to win from his last ball. This was very much one that got away for the Black Caps, who fell victim to Australia’s brute force down the order.
AUSTRALIA
We’ve been at pains to underline the strength-in-depth of Australia’s batting and this was on full show across the opening T20i of this series. They looked beaten at one stage chasing 216 to win but the sheer power of their lower order came through, not least Tim David, whose unbeaten 31 from just 10 balls batting at number six was key, supporting captain Mitchell Marsh, who finished 72 not out from 44 deliveries.
THE PREDICTION
It’s easy to get carried away by Australia’s batting, but the reality is that New Zealand should’ve won the first game. To not defend 32 runs from nine balls is a disappointing outcome and you’d expect them to rectify that if they find themselves in a similar position. Their top order batters match Australia and a shrewd move would be backing the hosts to respond with a win of their own.
TIP: NEW ZEALAND TO WIN