Zampa Takes Four as Australia Crush New Zealand in 2nd T20I, Clinch Series

In a standout performance during the second T20I in Auckland, Australia’s off-spinner Adam Zampa took four key wickets, leading his team to a 72-run victory over New Zealand, thereby clinching the three-match series with a 2-0 lead. Despite Lockie Ferguson’s impressive bowling figures of 4 for 12 for the home team, New Zealand couldn’t even the series.

Choosing to bowl after winning the toss, Ferguson quickly dismissed Steve Smith for seven runs. Australia’s Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head then put together a swift 53-run partnership for the second wicket, with Head scoring 45 before being bowled by Ben Sears.

Australia experienced a hiccup, losing several wickets in quick succession, which seemed to limit their scoring potential at Eden Park. Nevertheless, Pat Cummins’ brisk 28 off 22 balls and Nathan Ellis’ unbeaten 11 pushed Australia to a first innings total of 174.

Ferguson was the standout bowler for New Zealand, capturing four wickets, while the other New Zealand bowlers, except for Trent Boult, managed two wickets each.

Zampa shines in Auckland
New Zealand’s innings started poorly, with their top order dismissed early in the game. Glenn Philips attempted a rescue with a valiant 45, but Zampa’s assault on the middle order left New Zealand in a precarious position.

Despite double-digit scores from Josh Clarkson and Trent Boult, New Zealand couldn’t avoid a heavy defeat by 72 runs in the second T20I, consequently losing the series.

Pat Cummins, who excelled with both bat and ball, was named Player of the Match for his all-around performance.

Cummins expressed his enjoyment of batting in the T20 format, acknowledging the fortunate boundaries that came from some edges. He highlighted the aggressive batting approach encouraged in T20 cricket, especially at venues like Eden Park.

The series will conclude with the third and final T20I scheduled to be played in Auckland on Sunday, February 25.