New Zealand stuttered in their semi-final chase with an 86-run defeat by Australia at Lord’s.
With Australia having already qualified for the semi-finals, it wasn’t surprising to see some lapses in concentration. For New Zealand, a win would seal their spot in the top four.
The Black Caps bowled well from the start. They knocked Australia down five for 92 runs in 21.3 overs.
Alex Carey and Usman Khawaja sparked Australia’s recovery and took the Aussies to 199 by the 43rd over when the former lost his wicket for 71.
Khawaja was Australia’s hero scoring 88 before Trent Boult (4-51) bowled an incredible hat-trick final over to dismiss Khawaja, Mitchell Starc and Jason Behrendorff.
This saw Australia finish their innings on 243-9.
New Zealand’s chase was sub-par. Their skipper Kane Williamson was their best performer with 40.
Australia, despite having qualified, hindered the Black Caps’ semi-final hunt with an emphatic win. They skittled New Zealand for 157.
Starc was Australia’s best bowler with figures of 5-26.
Photo: Cricket World Cup/Twitter
