New Zealand vs Australia 2nd T20 Preview & Betting Tips - Australia to backed for repeat victory

By Nikhil Kalro

22 Feb 2024

Nikhil Kalro 22 Feb 2024

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Australia narrowly defeated New Zealand in the first T20I.
Key performers for Australia were Tim David and Mitchell Marsh.
Australia is predicted to continue their success in the 2nd T20I.

Australia beat New Zealand in the 1st T20 (Getty Images)

New Zealand and Australia are known for special games. There was another one of those on Wednesday in the first T20I as Australia chased down 35 off the last two overs to beat New Zealand off the last ball in the series opener of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy.

Australia vs New Zealand Form & Team News

Australia showcased their depth with Tim David, who smashed a splendid 31 not out off just 10 balls. With four to win off the last ball, David hit a boundary to complete a thrilling chase.

"You've seen him dominate T20 comps around the world and come onto the international stage and feel at home playing for Australia. It's special to watch and very proud of him,” captain Mitchell Marsh said.

"It's a scary proposition when he walks to the crease for any opposition bowlers. I think the journey and the failures along the way build the player you see out there today."

New Zealand will be somber after that result, a game they dominated at various points. Batting first, their openers came good, with Finn Allen setting the tone with 32 off 17 balls along with Devon Conway’s 63 off just 46 balls. Rachin Ravindra, batting at No. 3, hit a terrific 68 off just 35 balls.

Australia were always in the chase with cameos right through their batting order, led by Travis Head, David Warner and Glenn Maxwell. It was Mitchell Marsh’s unbeaten 72 off just 44 balls that sealed the chase along with Tim David’s stellar knock under intense pressure.

New Zealand vs Australia 2nd Test Tips & Predictions

Australia will take lots of confidence from that first result but it also showed a few holes in their bowling attack in batting-friendly conditions.

On the contrary, the argument could be made that Australia’s bowlers were better at stifling NZ in those conditions than the home side’s bowlers.

The odds for New Zealand will be compelling, especially after they nearly stole the game in the last few overs but we would reserve caution against that.

Australia’s bowlers took their time to find their feet but there should be a better performance in the offing in this game, which should disallow New Zealand from starting the game with the same speed as the previous game.

We’re still backing Australia to win the second T20I.