NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Playing 11: Michael Bracewell-led New Zealand will square off against Mitchell Marsh-led Australia in the 1st T20I on October 01 at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.

Australia and New Zealand have met on 19 occasions, where Australia has secured 13 wins while New Zealand has won on 6 occasions.

The Chappell Hadlee Trophy has been played on 14 seasons, where Australia has lifted the trophy 8 times, while New Zealand has won on four occasions, and twice ended in a draw. Australia won the toss and opted to bowl.

Speaking at the toss, Mitchell Marsh said, “We want to bowl first, it is an early start to the season and that is how most teams approach these days (chasing). The boundaries are short and obviously always an advantage knowing what you are chasing.”

Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell said, “We pride ourselves on doing well (in home conditions). We are really looking forward to the opportunity tonight.”

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Pitch Report

The pitch at Mount Maunganui is a small ground and offers a fast outfield with a good bounce in the pitch.

The pitch could stay a bit damp which will bring momentum and seam movement during the powerplay. There will be swing for the fast bowlers early on, but it will settle down as the game goes on.

Once the pitch settles down, though the batters will have the freedom to score. Hence, the toss will be crucial and chasing is recommended.

NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Playing 11

New Zealand Playing 11: Tim Seifert(w), Devon Conway, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Bevon Jacobs, Michael Bracewell(c), Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy

Australia Playing 11: Mitchell Marsh(c), Travis Head, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Owen, Tim David, Alex Carey(w), Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood