Australia beats New Zealand in T20 tri-series final

Maxwell scored 20 while Finch was 18 not out as they combined for 37 runs after Australia had lost three quick wickets in the middle of its innings to give the host and its fans at Eden Park slim hopes of an upset victory. 

The Australians, who won all five of their matches in the series that also included England, were 121 for three when they were forced off for rain for the second time during their innings. They had restricted New Zealand to 150 for nine.

Both sides had scored more than 240 runs each on the same pitch last Friday, but Australia ensured that would not happen again as it bowled a fuller length, cleverly changed its pace and set up the victory. The host had actually got off to flying start with Martin Guptill (21) and Colin Munro (29) smashing 48 from 4.3 overs before their dismissals in the space of five balls robbed the innings of momentum.

New Zealand was unable to establish any partnerships until it had been reduced to 110 for eight with 6.2 overs remaining. Ross Taylor (43 not out) and Ish Sodhi then put on 38 to ensure it saw out its full compliment. Left arm-spinner Ashton Agar, who ripped the heart out of New Zealand’s middle order, was man-of-the match after he finished with three for 27.

Australia’s run chase was not affected by an injury to batsman Chris Lynn, who dislocated his right shoulder while diving in the field. The 27-year-old has had three surgeries on his left shoulder and appeared to be protecting it in his dive but landed awkwardly, jarred his right shoulder and was immediately assisted from the field and taken to hospital for scans.