The second Twenty20 match of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy between New Zealand and Australia met an unfortunate end due to rain, resulting in an abandonment on Friday night. This leaves Australia leading the three-match series 1-0.
Initially, rain caused a 30-minute delay to the toss, and just as the players were set to take the field, showers returned. The game eventually commenced at 6:30 pm (AEST) with each side scheduled to play nine overs. However, only 13 deliveries were bowled before the weather interrupted play once more.
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first, while Australia found themselves at 1-16 when the match was halted. The Australian innings began with a cautious start, unable to make significant progress against New Zealand’s bowler Matt Henry, who showcased accurate bowling, allowing just two runs in the first over.
As the rain returned, Travis Head faced Jacob Duffy and secured a lucky boundary with an inside edge before being dismissed for five runs from three balls. This brought Matt Short to the crease. When play was suspended, Mitch Marsh had scored nine runs, while Short was on two.
Australia had secured a victory in the first match of the series by six wickets, ensuring they would retain the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy regardless of the outcome of the final match. Scheduled for Saturday at Bay Oval, this third clash may also face weather interruptions, as rain is forecasted once again.