Australia defeated New Zealand by six wickets in the series opener at Mount Maunganui despite Tim Robinson's unbeaten 106 in his first T20I century. Captain Mitchell Marsh led the chase with 85 runs off 43 balls as Australia reached the target with 19 deliveries remaining. Travis Head and Marsh combined for 67 runs during the power play to establish control.
New Zealand collapsed to 6 for 3 before Robinson rebuilt the innings alongside Daryl Mitchell in a 92-run partnership. Robinson survived five dropped chances while reaching his century from 65 balls. Australia maintained its dominance through the chase as Matt Short added 29 runs and Tim David finished the match.
New Zealand collapsed to 6 for 3 before Robinson rebuilt the innings alongside Daryl Mitchell in a 92-run partnership. Robinson survived five dropped chances while reaching his century from 65 balls. Australia maintained its dominance through the chase as Matt Short added 29 runs and Tim David finished the match.
