New Zealand win thrilling match against Australia

Scott Styris went from 12^th man to national hero as his knock steered New Zealand to a thrilling 2 wicket win over Australia in the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy cricket opener today.

Styris was only included into the playing eleven after Daniel Vettori withdrew with a neck injury. The veteran all-rounder responded with an unbeaten 49 off 34 balls as New Zealand chased down 276 with four balls to spare at McLean Park.

Shane Bond was another hero as he hit Shane Watson for 2 boundaries in the 49th over and Styris took 12 runs off it. Styris cracked Doug Bollinger over his head for six. He hit seven fours and a six in all.

It was New Zealand's fifth consecutive ODI win over Australia on home soil and gave them a flying start in their bid to wrest back the trophy in the five-match series. Stand-in skipper Ross Taylor was named man of the match as he got New Zealand close with 70 off 71 balls. Kiwis were hindered by Jacob Oram's absence from the batting order. Oram hyper-extend his left knee while fielding and was assisted off the ground in pain in the 28th over.

Vettori is expected back for Saturday's second match in Auckland while Oram faces an uncertain future and a scan tomorrow.
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