ICC WC Final: New Zealand’s Poor Show , Set Victory Target Of 184-Run For Australia

29 March, Melbourne

New Zealand have given a 184-run target for Australia in World Cup Final at Melbourne Sunday . Kiwi Skipper Brendon McCullum’s decision to bat first backfired badly, as he, Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson went back to the hut at the score of just 39.

Grant Elliott, the match winner of the semi-final against South Africa, along with Ross Taylor repaired the early damage sharing 111 runs for the 4th wicket.

However, Australia’s fiery pace attack got the home side back into the game.

The trio of James Faulkner, Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Johnson produced some exceptional bowling to dismantle the Kiwis, who slid from 150 for 3 to 182 for 9.

Tim Southee fell short of the crease at the end, and the Black Caps were bundled out for 183.

Faulkner and Johnson bagged 3 wickets each, with Starc claiming two and Glenn Maxwell one. For the Kiwis, Elliott top scoed with 83.

Aussie Skipper Michael Clarke, who will bid ODI cricket good-bye after this match, is eying a fifth World Cup title for his country, while McCullum and his Black Caps are looking to lift the coveted trophy for the first time.