Haddin, Ponting hand Australia series lead

Brad Haddin and Ricky Ponting put on a great batting display to help Australia cruise to victory over New Zealand in the third ODI at Hamilton.

New Zealand got off to a quick start in the first Power Play, scoring 55 runs but lost the wickets of both their openers, Peter Ingram and Brendon McCullum. Martin Guptill failed to perform yet again, picked up by Mitchell Johson in the Bowling Power Play. Ross Taylor and Neil Broom pulled things back for the Kiwis with a 70 run stand for the fourth wicket before Johnson struck again to pick up Broom. Scott Styris took charge of things after Taylor’s dismissal and was supported well by Gareth Hopkins. The duo added 67 runs as they head into the Extreme Performance overs. Things went horribly wrong from the 42nd over as New Zealand lost five wickets in a span of six overs and were bowled out for just 245.

Australia started cautiously in their run chase, scoring just 39 runs in the Quick start overs after losing the wicket of Shane Watson. Brad Haddin looked to be in great knick and was enjoying being in the middle with his skipper, Ricky Ponting. The duo went on to share a mammoth 151-run stand for the second wicket, which put the game firmly in Australia’s favour. Brad Haddin scored his second ODI century before being stumped off Vettori. Cameron White finished the job for Australia as he took them home in the 48th over. It was a disappointing performance from the black caps as they struggled to match Australia in any department.

Brad Haddin was adjudged Man of the Match for his 110 off 121 balls which came with a Batting Momentum off 144.