New Delhi: The third ODI between Australia and New Zealand at Cairns has become a memorable one as Steve Smith scored an ODI century after two years and it is the last one-day game for the Australian captain Aaron Finch. Finch announced his retirement from the 50-over format before the game. It is good for Australia that Smith has surpassed the mental barrier of a hundred as he is the next potential captain of the side.
In the game, it was a not-so-good start for Australia as Josh Inglis was dismissed for 10(16) by Trent Boult. Aaron Finch, playing his last ODI inning, departed in the next over at 5(13) after Tim Southee bowled a beautiful full-length delivery angling back in, hitting the stumps. Smith and Marnus Labuschagne posted a 118-run stand to bring back the inning on track. Labuschagne scored a fifty before getting out to a short slower-one by Lockie Ferguson. A 69-run stand between Smith and Alex Carey took things forward. Smith went on to score 105(131). His 12th ODI century came from 127 deliveries, the slowest of his career, but he hit the second fifty in just 46 balls.
Alex Carey’s 42*(43) and Cameroon Green cracking 25* off 12 deliveries helped Australia post a total of 267/5. With the bowling attack that Australia possesses and the kind of games that have been played on this tour, the total looks defendable.
There were some heartfelt moments in this special game. The players observed a minute’s silence in memory of Queen Elizabeth II and wore black armbands. Aaron Finch received a guard of honour from Kane Williamson’s New Zealand side as he walked in for his final ODI game.