Day 15: Black Caps choke to victory over Oz
There's nothing like a fierce rivalry and a tense game to up the ante.
MUCH has been said about South Africa being the chokers in international ODI cricket.
But what about New Zealand?
They botched the run chase against Australia so badly that they almost lost the match, from a seemingly ‘un-losable’ position.
Even their commentators were ‘choking’. They could hardly speak properly.
One can hardly blame them as Kiwis love to beat Australia at any sport, but especially at cricket. And especially in a World Cup.
An Aussie friend has described the Kiwis as ‘insufferable’ when they win.
It all adds to the excitement and intensity of the sport.
Australia batted first and after a decent start, collapsed to 151 all out thanks to Trent ‘Thunder’ Boult.
In reply, the Black Caps were cruising at 130 odd for four before Mitchell Starc rattled the tail.
In the end, when number three Kane Williamson launched Pat Cummins’ overpitched delivery into the crowd, New Zealand were nine down.
What a match. Who said ODI cricket had to be about boundaries?
It’s about suspense.
In the late game India predictably beat the United Arab Emirates, by nine wickets.
