Having lost the first two matches of the series, Australia had the series at stake. It was a do-or-die situation for them. Losing this match meant they lost the series. After winning the toss, New Zealand decided to bowl first.
First Innings
There was an early swing, as is always seen on New Zealand pitches. Australia struggled at the start of the innings and lost the wicket of Matthew Wade. His bad form continued in this match as well. Aaron Finch and Josh Philippe set a good 2nd wicket partnership of 83 runs. After the wicket of Philippe, Glenn Maxwell walked in to bat and was simply outstanding. He batted with a strike rate of 225, scoring 70 runs in just 31 balls. With him and Finch both scoring half-centuries, Australia gave New Zealand a target of 209.
Second Innings
New Zealand got off to a poor start. They lost Sifert and Williamson in the powerplay and it is crucial to the advantage of powerplay in huge chases like these. Guptil was batting well, but he got out to Zampa scoring 43 runs in 28 balls. The pressure of the target got to New Zealand and was all out for 144 runs.
Australian bowling
Riley Meredith, on his debut, was a good find for Australia. He picked up 2 wickets in his spell. Ashton Agar, who was the Man of the Match, set a record and became the first Australian bowler to take 6 wickets in a t20 game.
