Marsh outmuscles Robinson as Australia cruise past NZ in first T20I

Australia beat New Zealand by six wickets in a T20 International, successfully chasing 182 after New Zealand struggled early, falling to 6 for 3 in the second over. New Zealand's innings was anchored by Tim Robinson, who scored a remarkable maiden T20I century from 65 balls, overcoming the early collapse and benefiting from five dropped catches by the Australian fielders. However, Australia's chase was set up by an opening stand of 67 between Marsh and Head, ensuring the outcome was never truly in doubt despite Marsh falling 15 runs short of his own century. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa played a crucial role in squeezing New Zealand's scoring in the middle overs, managing his figures effectively despite difficult, cold, and windy conditions that affected his Raynaud's syndrome. The Australian top order ultimately muscled through the bowling attack, securing the win in a match that was only the second time a chasing side had won a T20I at that venue. Even with key players missing, Australia's strong start proved decisive against a New Zealand side that couldn't accelerate sufficiently in the latter half of their innings.