World Cup 2023: Australia edge New Zealand in high-scoring thriller

Australia overcame a spirited New Zealand to extend their World Cup winning streak to four games in a high-scoring thriller in Dharamsala.

But James Neesham was agonisingly run out for 58 off the penultimate ball and last man Lockie Ferguson could not hit the six needed from the final delivery.

They finished five runs short on 383-9, led by Rachin Ravindra’s stunning 116.

The combined tally of 771 runs made it the highest-scoring World Cup game of all time.

Earlier, Travis Head’s brutal 109 from 67 balls, in an opening stand of 175 in 19.1 overs with David Warner, helped Australia to their imposing total of 388.

An uncharacteristically sloppy performance in the field saw New Zealand spill four catches, including Head on 70 and 75, amid a chaotic opening bowling display.

The usually consistent seamers Matt Henry and Trent Boult struggled in the face of Warner and Head’s aggressive start, with the pair smashing 118-0 in the 10-over powerplay – an Australian ODI record.

Part-time spinner Glenn Phillips took 3-37 to record the only respectable figures in Australia’s imposing total, which included 20 sixes.

Australia have recovered from two successive defeats to start the tournament and are well-placed for a semi-final spot, while New Zealand’s hopes are not too severely dented after their strong start of four wins. (BBC)