3rd Test Match Cricketweb XI vs New Zealand
@ Auckland
Cricketweb XI completed a memorable 3-0 series whitewash of New Zealand after a hard fought third test win. Dan Smith and Chris Butler hit brilliant centuries in the match while all the bowlers contributed in what has been described as one of the most all round complete performances in the short history of the country.
The match began badly for New Zealand when number three batsman Matthew Sinclair suffered a groin strain in the warm up shortly before the toss, surprisingly thirteenth man Tim Southee was picked over perhaps another batsman. A solid first innings total of 311 was highlighted by another excellent performance from Chris Butler, the talented number four hit an unbeaten 121 while fellow Colt Mike Wilson hit 61. Brent Arnel was again the pick of the Kiwi bowlers with four wickets.
It was a pretty similar performance as the previous tests in reply for New Zealand, the top order was solid but not good enough, Daniel Vettori enjoyed his promotion to number seven by top scoring with an almost a run a ball 75. The home side were eventually bowled out for 239 David Kennett and Nick Borcich taking three wickets each.
The reply from the visitors was solid but not decisive, Hakon Mork's recent run of outs continued when he fell early for 9 but it was Dan Smith who got his maiden test century, he top scored with 139. Andrew Cloete was again in good form with a solid half century, Arnel grabbed another four wickets and James Franklin also got four in the score of 320.
Making the 393 to win was never going to be easy given New Zealand's batting form throughout the season, this innings was no different. Neil Broom celebrated his maiden test ton but his 106 not out was only enough to get the home side to 295. 44 by Daniel Flynn was the only other performance of note. Nick Borcich completed a brilliant series by taking four wickets and Greg Thomas put in his best performance in taking 3/52 from 15 overs.
Cricketweb XI 311
CR Butler 121*, MW Wilson 61, DP Smith 42, BJ Arnel 4/82, DL Vettori 2/28
New Zealand 239
DL Vettori 75, DR Flynn 29, DM Kennett 3/28, NA Borcich 3/67
Cricketweb XI 320
DP Smith 139, AP Cloete 63, MW Wilson 35, JE Franlin 4/55, BJ Arnel 4/65
New Zealand 295
NT Broom 106*, DR Flynn 44, NA Borcich 4/62, GM Thomas 3/52
Cricketweb XI won by 97 runs
Man of the Match: DP Smith