Australia beat New Zealand
Published:Friday | February 26, 2010 | 1:06 PM
Australia cruised to a six-wicket win against hosts New Zealand in their opening 20/20 International in Wellington today.
Set a paltry 119 to win, the visitors reached their target with 24 balls to spare to complete the comfortable victory their fourth in as many 20/20 matches against the Black Caps.
David Hussey top scored for Australia with 46 from 36 balls. He shared in an important 67-run partnership with captain Michael Clarke after Australia were 39 for three.
Clarke scored an undefeated 18 off 26 balls.
Shane Bond was the most successful bowler for New Zealand with two for 32 off four overs.
Earlier, Australia bowled out New Zealand for 118 off their allotted 20 overs. James Franklin top scored with 43, while Martin Guptill chipped in with 30 and Gareth Hopkins 21.
Mitchell Jonson was the most successful bowler for Australia with three for 19 off four overs, while Shaun Tait, Dick Nannes and Shane Watson supported with two wickets apiece.
The second and final match of the series takes place in Christchurch on Sunday.