Australia opened the three-match Chappell–Hadlee T20I series with a commanding six-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first game.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia put early pressure on the hosts, reducing New Zealand to 6 for 3. However, a stunning unbeaten knock of 106 off 66 balls by Tim Robinson, featuring 6 fours and 5 sixes, rescued the innings. Supported by Daryl Mitchell’s 34, New Zealand managed to post a competitive 181 for 6 in 20 overs.
For Australia, Ben Dwarshuis claimed 2 wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Matthew Short picked up one apiece.
In reply, the visitors’ batting power proved decisive. Mitchell Marsh smashed 85 off 43 balls and Travis Head added 31 from 18 deliveries, guiding Australia to 185 for 4 in just 16.3 overs. Matt Henry was the pick of New Zealand’s bowlers with 2 wickets, while Zakary Foulkes and Kyle Jamieson chipped in with one each.
Marsh’s explosive batting earned him the Player of the Match award as Australia went 1-0 up in the series.
