Trans-Tasman neighbours, Australia and New Zealand take to the field in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 with an eye on the coveted trophy at the majestic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). After six weeks and 48 matches among 14 teams, the game pits four-time champions Australia, the numero uno side in One-Day Internationals (ODI), against their trans-Tasman rivals and maiden finalists, New Zealand. As neighbours get set to battle it out for the championship, here is all that you need to know ahead of this marquee clash. Also Read- Australia vs New Zealand Match Preview.
1) Kiwis’ last visit
Last time New Zealand played an ODI on Australian soil dates back to February 13, 2009. The five-match Chappell-Hadlee Trophy was leveled at 2-2. The two teams were battling it out for the series decider at Brisbane Cricket Ground before heavens opened and no result was possible. It has been over six years since Kiwis have landed on an Australian surface to play an ODI. Check Out- Australia vs New Zealand, ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, Final: Likely Playing XI & Statistics.
2) Australia’s impressive run at the MCG
With 71 wins out of 118 matches, MCG is one of the happy hunting grounds for Australia. Hosts have lost only 43 matches at the venue; one game resulted in a tie and the three matches have produced no results. In their last 12 ODIs at the MCG, Australia lost only twice and are unbeaten in their last six encounters.
3) New Zealand’s NOT so impressive run at the MCG
While Australia boasts of successful record at the MCG, New Zealand on the other hand, have a poor record in place. Out of 24 matches played by New Zealand at the venue, they have won only eight, lost 15 and one match yielded no result. Numbers surely are against the Kiwis!
4) Neighbours at the MCG
Trans-Tasman neighbours, Australia and New Zealand have faced each other in 19 ODIs at the MCG. Hosts Australia, convincingly lead the Kiwis with 14 wins while visitors have managed to win just four matches. One game (Benson & Hedges World Series Cup, 1986) between these two nations at the venue was abandoned by the rain. One thing going for the Kiwis is that the last ODI played between these two nations at the venue in 2009 went their way. New Zealand won the match by chasing the target of 226 in 48.5 overs with six wickets in hand. Also Read- Brendon McCullum, Steve Smith among key players for AUS vs NZ clash.
5) Last 10 ODIs at the MCG
Out of last 10 ODIs at the MCG, the team batting first has won seven matches. The highest team total in these last 10 matches is 342 for nine by Australia against England in their World Cup opener. The venue hosted four matches this world cup and in all those games team batting first posted over 300 runs on board and defended successfully.
