The Australia vs New Zealand 1st T20I 2025 in Mount Maunganui produced fireworks, with Mitchell Marsh leading from the front. His blistering 85 guided Australia to a six-wicket win with 21 balls to spare. Although Tim Robinson’s maiden T20I century gave New Zealand hope, the total of 181 proved insufficient against Australia’s batting power.
Robinson’s lone fight for New Zealand
New Zealand endured a disastrous start, slipping to 6 for 3 inside two overs. Ben Dwarshuis struck twice, while Josh Hazlewood applied early pressure. Robinson, however, rebuilt the innings with determination. After a slow beginning, he unleashed his power strokes, reaching a 65-ball hundred. The young batter was handed multiple lifelines by Australia’s fielders, yet his innings kept New Zealand in the contest.
Despite Robinson’s brilliance, support from the other end was limited. Daryl Mitchell’s contribution of 32 was the only major partnership. Adam Zampa then tightened the screws in the middle overs, conceding only nine runs across his final two overs, halting New Zealand’s late acceleration.
Australia vs New Zealand 1st T20I: Marsh steals the show
Chasing 182, Australia’s openers dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack. A 67-run partnership between Marsh and Travis Head broke the back of the chase inside the powerplay. Marsh, in particular, was ruthless with his drives and straight hitting. He blasted a 23-ball fifty and finished with 85 off 44 balls, including six sixes.
Even after losing partners, Australia never looked troubled. Matt Short chipped in with 29 from 18 deliveries, while Tim David finished the game with authority. The chase highlighted Australia’s batting depth, even without Glenn Maxwell and Cameron Green in the lineup.
Mitchell Marsh smashes a solid 85 runs against New Zealand in the 2nd T20I — leading from the front! 💥🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) October 1, 2025
📸Getty #MitchellMarsh #AUSvsNZ #T20I #CricketAustralia #PowerHitting #CaptainKnock #CricketHighlights #WicketBuzz #CricketFans #CricketUpdates pic.twitter.com/8ZvmBwrM0i
Bowling highlights in Mount Maunganui clash
Australia’s bowlers also played their part in the Australia vs New Zealand 1st T20I 2025. Dwarshuis removed two key batters early, while Hazlewood delivered with the new ball. Zampa’s control in windy conditions proved decisive, restricting Robinson during the middle overs. Despite five dropped catches, the visitors maintained control throughout.
Key takeaway from Australia vs New Zealand 1st T20I 2025
The opening game of the Chappell-Hadlee T20I series showcased Marsh’s dominance and Robinson’s resilience. Australia’s comprehensive win places them 1-0 up, underlining their strength ahead of the T20 World Cup build-up. New Zealand, meanwhile, must regroup quickly to challenge in the remaining matches.
