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The three-match T20I series between New Zealand and Australia began in electrifying fashion on October 1 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The visitors, led by stand-in skipper Mitchell Marsh, won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision that paid off instantly as they dismantled the Kiwi top order within the first two overs.
By the end of just 1.4 overs, the hosts were in deep trouble at 6/3, courtesy of some outstanding bowling from left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis, who delivered back-to-back blows that rattled the BlackCaps.
Ben Dwarshuis stuns Devon Conway with a beauty
The highlight of the early collapse came in the second over when Dwarshuis produced a delivery that will be remembered for a long time. On his third ball, he bowled a full-length delivery aimed at the stumps with a hint of inward movement.
New Zealand opener Devon Conway, who is usually solid at the crease, misjudged the line as he stepped out to attack. The left-hander was comprehensively beaten and could only watch in disbelief as his middle stump was uprooted and sent cartwheeling. The dismissal sent a wave of excitement across the stadium and on social media, with fans hailing Dwarshuis’ fiery start.
Here’s the video:
Ben Dwarshuis knocks middle stump out of the ground and sends it cartwheeling 🤸♂💥
— Kayo Sports (@kayosports)
Also READ: NZ vs AUS: Rachin Ravindra ruled out of the T20I series against Australia; replacement announced
Mark Chapman follows Conway on the very next ball
If dismissing Conway wasn’t enough, Dwarshuis ensured New Zealand’s woes deepened with his very next delivery. Facing him was skipper Mark Chapman, who walked in under immense pressure. The left-hander, however, could not get off the mark and departed for a golden duck.
Dwarshuis bowled a good length delivery that swung slightly down the leg side. Chapman tried to glance it fine but managed only a faint inside edge through to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Initially, neither the bowler nor the keeper was fully convinced, but Marsh decided to challenge the on-field call. The review turned out to be spot-on as UltraEdge confirmed the nick, leaving Chapman shocked and New Zealand reeling at 6/3.
Australia on top in powerplay
Dwarshuis’ double strike put Australia firmly in control of the match during the powerplay. His ability to move the ball both ways troubled the Kiwi batters, while Australia’s disciplined attack from the other end ensured the hosts never settled.
The quick wickets highlighted the inexperience in New Zealand’s batting order, especially with senior players absent. Conway’s early dismissal, in particular, was a massive setback, given his reputation as an anchor in the top order.
New Zealand ended up scoring 181/6 in 20 overs, thanks to Tim Robinson‘s dazzling century. He remained unbeaten on 106 off 66 deliveries with the help of 6 fours and 5 sixes.
