The BLACKCAPS were set 323 to win the second Chappell-Hadlee Trophy game at Westpac Stadium, Wellington after Andrew Symonds' record-breaking innings rescued Australia.
As in the first One-Day International in Auckland, the BLACKCAPS struck early and they then built on that to put pressure on the tourists. But Symonds set a record 156 as part of 220-run stand with Michael Clarke to boost their side’s total.
Australia won the toss and shared BLACKCAPS captain Daniel Vettori's intent to bat first. The decision appeared to have back-fired when the top order was removed fairly cheaply. The tourists looked under pressure at 101 for four, but Symonds and Clarke moved their side to a sizeable 322 for five.
After losing the toss, the BLACKCAPS started well. They struck early, and once again, it was dangerman Adam Gilchrist sent back to the pavilion. In the third over, Chris Cairns took a catch at cover as Mills forced left-hander Gilchrist into a tame lob to the off side.
Once again, Ricky Ponting came to the crease early but was not allowed to make the decisive contribution he had at Eden Park. The visiting captain made 28 before nudging another aggressive Mills delivery to wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum in the ninth over.
Hamish Marshall showed his prowess in the field for the next two dismissals. Firstly, Brad Hodge was dispatched for a duck with the score at 50 for two after a fine catch at point from Chris Cairns' bowling. Then, at 101-3 in the 22nd over, Simon Katich was dismissed when Marshall's pin-point throw left him well short of the line.
But with their side in trouble, Symonds and Clarke pushed Australia on to their healthy total.
Symonds had built a patient first 50 from 70 deliveries before letting go to devastating effect. His second 50 came from 39 and his third from just 16. Once in tandem with Clarke, the English-born all-rounder was given an opportunity to take the strike and he showed his talent at the crease.
Eight sixes and 12 fours from his innings reflected the quality of his knock, which was ended, as at Eden Park, by being bowled by Daniel Vettori.
Clarke, having played a supporting innings, finished on 82 not out, with Michael Hussey adding a single run.
