Mitchell Marsh’s maiden T20I century saved the day for Australia in the 3rd T20 against New Zealand.
Australia secured a dominant 2-0 series victory against New Zealand in a thrilling third and final T20 International at Bay Oval, largely thanks to an unforgettable, maiden century from their captain, Mitchell Marsh.
On a brisk, damp evening, Marsh became the lynchpin of Australia’s chase of 157 runs. His monumental unbeaten knock of 103 off just 52 deliveries, adorned with eight fours and seven towering sixes, was a masterclass in resilience and aggression. This remarkable achievement, his first century in his 76th T20I appearance, arrived dramatically with the very first ball of the 18th over.
Australia ultimately reached their target of 160 for 7 with a comfortable 12 balls to spare. Despite a flurry of early wickets, Marsh’s unwavering presence ensured victory, with only Mitchell Owen (14) and Sean Abbott (13 not out) offering minor support in the late stages of the chase.
New Zealand had a glimmer of hope when Jimmy Neesham delivered a fiery spell, taking 4 wickets for 26 runs and reducing Australia to a shaky 93 for 5. However, Marsh calmly weathered the storm, blending powerful hitting with strategic patience to guide his team across the finish line.
Reflecting on the tense finish, Marsh commented, “There was certainly some pressure towards the end, but securing an away series win in New Zealand feels fantastic. It was a tighter contest than we perhaps wanted, but we ultimately got the job done.”
Earlier in the match, after being asked to bat first, New Zealand set a total of 156 for 9. Opener Tim Seifert was the top scorer with a brisk 48 off 35 balls, while quick contributions from captain Michael Bracewell (26) and Jimmy Neesham (25) ensured a respectable total. Sean Abbott was the standout bowler for Australia, claiming 3 wickets for 25 runs.
New Zealand’s captain, Michael Bracewell, acknowledged Marsh’s pivotal role in the outcome. “We unleashed everything we had against him, utilized all our bowling options, but sometimes you just have to applaud an exceptional innings,” Bracewell stated.
Australia had previously taken the series lead with a six-wicket win in Wellington on Wednesday, where Marsh also shone with 85 runs. The second match of the series was unfortunately washed out due to rain.