Australia’s hopes of sealing the T20I series early were washed away as the second match against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, was abandoned due to heavy rain on Friday. Persistent showers delayed the start and eventually reduced the contest to a nine-overs-per-side match, but even that couldn’t be completed. Australia continues to lead the three-match series 1-0 heading into the decider.
Marsh’s Honest Confession: “I Was About to Retire Myself”
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh shared a light-hearted yet honest moment after the match, admitting he was under rare pressure during his brief stay at the crease. Batting in a shortened game, Marsh found it tough to get going and was struggling on 1 run from 5 balls before the rain returned to end play.
“Days like today are always tough. We tried our best to get a game for the crowd, but the weather won today. Hopefully, tomorrow is better. The Chappell-Hadlee Trophy holds a lot of history for both teams. I was 1 off 5 in a nine-over game and never felt so much pressure in my career. Honestly, I was about to retire myself,” Marsh joked after the game.
Only 2.1 overs of play were possible before the match was called off, with Australia at 13/1. Travis Head fell early to Jacob Duffy for 5, while Marsh and Matthew Short remained unbeaten on 9 and 2, respectively.
Bracewell: “We Really Wanted a Game”
New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell expressed disappointment over the washout, saying his team was eager to level the series after losing the opener.
“We wanted to play and level the series, but the weather didn’t cooperate tonight. It was pleasing to see the improvement from a couple of days ago. You feel for the guys who miss out, and every match is a chance to represent your country. Credit to the fans for turning up in tough conditions — hopefully, tomorrow we get some sunshine,” Bracewell said.
Decider Set for October 4
The series now heads to a winner-takes-all finale at the same venue on Saturday, October 4. Australia had comfortably chased down 182 in the first T20I and will look to maintain their momentum, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back and level the series.
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