Matthew Hayden struck a majestic 181 not out as Australia set the BLACKCAPS another steep target in the third and final Chappell Hadlee ODI at Hamilton.
The veteran opener accumulated an Australian record score in an ODI, despite being assisted by a runner for the last 13, as the tourists posted 340 for five at Seddon Park.
The innings gave Australia an excellent 346 for five, with over half the runs contributed by the Queenslander, including 11 fours and 10 sixes.
Michael Hussey won the toss and elected to bat. Hayden’s 122-run opening stand with Shane Watson, who provided a run-a-ball 68, showed it was a wise decision.
Jeetan Patel broke the stand, trapping Watson lbw for the first of his two wickets in the match. The second was a fine delivery which removed Brad Hodge’s off stump for 12.
Daryl Tuffey claimed the wicket of Brad Haddin (38), caught by Lou Vincent at mid-on, ending a pairing of 88.
Hayden, though was in was in irrepressible form.
His ferocious strike rate – he faced 166 deliveries - was hindered little by the injury mid-innings.
Mark Gillespie claimed two late wickets, Hussey and Cameron White both for 13, but the tourists maintained their devastating pace.
Hayden carried his bat for one of One-Day cricket’s best-ever innings, the highest ever in New Zealand limited overs cricket.
