Australia vs New Zealand | Chappell-Hadlee Trophy 2025 | 1st T20 I aUS WIN | Full match Review & Analysis | usman on cricket
The much-anticipated Chappell-Hadlee Trophy 2025 kicked off in style as Australia dominated New Zealand in the 1st T20I at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. Despite Tim Robinson’s heroic century for New Zealand, Mitchell Marsh’s explosive knock ensured a comfortable chase for Australia, putting the visitors 1–0 up in the three-match series. Follow www.usmanoncricket.com for more updates about this series and latest news from cricketing world.
Match Overview
| Match | Venue | Toss | Result | Player of the Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Australia opted to bowl | Australia won by 6 wickets (21 balls spare) | Mitchell Marsh (85 off 43) |
Pitch & Conditions
The Bay Oval surface was generally good for batting, with consistent bounce early on. However, chilly winds and breezy conditions meant bowlers had some assistance. As the match progressed, spinners came into play, but Australia’s power-hitters made the chase look effortless.
New Zealand Innings Breakdown
New Zealand managed 181/6 in 20 overs, a decent score given their early collapse.
- Top Order Collapse: Within two overs, New Zealand were reeling at 6/3, losing their frontline batters cheaply.
- Tim Robinson’s Masterclass: Robinson stood tall with an unbeaten 106 off 66 balls, a career-defining knock that kept his side in contention.
- Support Acts: Daryl Mitchell scored 34 (23) while Devon Jacobs added 20 (21) in a supporting role.
- Australian Bowling: Josh Hazlewood (1/23) and Adam Zampa (0/27) were economical, while Ben Dwarshuis picked up 2 wickets but went for 40 runs.
Key Highlight: Robinson was dropped twice by Australian fielders—missed chances that allowed him to reach his century.
Australia’s Chase
Australia made light work of the target, reaching 185/4 in just 16.3 overs.
- Explosive Start: Travis Head (31 off 18) and captain Mitchell Marsh (85 off 43) gave Australia a blazing platform.
- Middle-Order Power: Matt Short (29 off 17) and Tim David (21 off 12) ensured the chase ended comfortably.
- NZ Bowling Struggles: Except skipper Bracewell (0/29 in 3 overs), every bowler conceded over 10 runs per over. Matt Henry’s 2/43 was the only notable return.
Turning Point: Marsh’s fearless hitting crushed NZ’s hopes, showcasing why he remains one of the world’s most dangerous T20 batters.
Match Turning Moments
- NZ’s top-order collapse at 6/3.
- Robinson’s century – a lone warrior act.
- Dropped catches that cost NZ momentum.
- Marsh’s explosive innings sealing the match.
- Australia’s toss decision to bowl first proving spot on.
Player of the Match
Mitchell Marsh – smashing 85 off 43 balls (9 fours, 4 sixes)
Squad Absences & Injury Updates
Both teams entered this series missing several key players:
New Zealand
- Mitchell Santner (captain) – Abdominal surgery (out of series)
- Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Will O’Rourke, Kane Williamson – Injuries/unavailability
- Rachin Ravindra – Ruled out after facial injury in training
- Jimmy Neesham – Added as replacement
- Michael Bracewell – Leading the side in Santner’s absence
Australia
- Glenn Maxwell – Fractured wrist
- Josh Inglis – Calf strain
- Cameron Green – Rested for red-ball focus
- Pat Cummins – Not part of squad
- Marcus Stoinis – Recalled to strengthen middle order
Series Standings & Upcoming Matches
Australia now lead the 3-match T20I series 1–0. New Zealand must bounce back quickly to keep the series alive.
| Match | Date | Venue |
| 2nd T20I | 3 October 2025 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
| 3rd T20I | 4 October 2025 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
Key Analysis & Takeaways
1. Australia’s Batting Depth
Despite missing stars like Maxwell, Australia’s batting firepower shone through. Marsh, Head, Short, and David all played their part, underlining their bench strength.
2. NZ’s Over-Reliance on Robinson
Robinson’s knock was world-class, but New Zealand cannot depend solely on one player. Other batters must step up in upcoming matches.
3. Fielding Lapses
Dropped catches from NZ proved costly. In high-pressure T20s, such mistakes are often decisive.
4. Tactical Brilliance
Australia’s decision to chase under lights worked perfectly, capitalizing on early NZ struggles.
5. Series Momentum
Australia have the upper hand. NZ must regroup fast to prevent a whitewash at home.
Predictions for Upcoming Matches
- 2nd T20I (Oct 3): Australia favorites again unless NZ’s middle-order contributes. If NZ bowlers strike early, the game could tilt.
- 3rd T20I (Oct 4): Likely decider if NZ bounce back in the second match. Australia’s batting depth still gives them an edge.
Predicted Series Result: Australia 2–1 (if NZ rallies) or 3–0 (if Marsh & Co. continue dominance).
FAQs- aus vs nz ( 1st t20i )
Who was the star of the 1st T20I between Australia and New Zealand?
Mitchell Marsh, with his 85 off 43 balls, won Player of the Match.
What went wrong for New Zealand in the 1st T20I?
Their top-order collapse, poor fielding, and lack of bowling penetration cost them the game.
Which players are missing in this series due to injury?
NZ: Santner, Ravindra, Allen, Ferguson, Williamson, Milne. AUS: Maxwell, Inglis, Cummins, Green.
How did Tim Robinson perform?
He scored a brilliant unbeaten 106, keeping NZ competitive.
What’s next in the Chappell-Hadlee T20 series?
The 2nd T20I will be played on 3rd October, followed by the 3rd on 4th October.
Conclusion
Australia’s dominant win in the 1st T20I highlights their depth and firepower, while New Zealand rely heavily on Robinson. With the series still open, the 2nd T20I will be crucial for NZ to stay alive.
Who’s your pick for the series – Australia or New Zealand? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
