New Zealand edges Aussies by 1 wicket

The Australians, who have won 11 of their 16 ODI matches against New Zealand at Eden Park, trail the home side in the Pool A standings after their game against Bangladesh was rained off following a decisive victory over England. File photo

Kane Williamson clubbed a six from the first ball of the 24th over in an unbeaten innings of 45 which hoisted New Zealand to a one-wicket win over Australia in a breathless preliminary skirmish Saturday between the Cricket World Cup co-hosts.

New Zealand paceman Trent Boult had taken five wickets for three runs in his second spell to complete career-best figures of 5-27 as Australia was bowled out for 151 in 32.2 overs.

Brendon McCullum then made 50 from 21 balls as New Zealand appeared to be cruising to victory at 78-1 in the eighth over.

But Mitchell Starc took 6-28 to wreck the New Zealand innings and leave Williamson to lead a desperate rearguard action to save the match and New Zealand’s unbeaten record in Pool A.