New Zealand host Australia in the 1st T20I at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on October 1, 2025.
The opening match of the three-game series promises intensity, with the Black Caps fielding a youthful side in the absence of several senior players, while Australia arrive as reigning T20 World Champions riding superb recent form.
Both teams will treat this clash as crucial preparation for upcoming global tournaments. Fans can expect power-hitting, tactical bowling, and plenty of drama under the Bay Oval lights.
Explore latest betting odds, predictions and expert guides in the TSN betting section.
New Zealand vs Australia Form Guide & Predictions
The Black Caps have struggled for consistency in the last few months, with recent defeats to South Africa and Zimbabwe highlighting vulnerabilities in batting order stability and death bowling. Still, their home advantage and the resurgence of star performers like Daryl Mitchell and the returning Kyle Jamieson provide optimism.
Australia enter this series with confidence, having clinched a series win over South Africa with clinical all-round performances. Their explosive top order, anchored by Glenn Maxwell and David Warner, has delivered match-winning totals, while Adam Zampa’s control in the middle overs has kept opposition run rates in check.
The Sporting News Prediction for NZ vs. AUS
- If teams batting first: Australia 180–190, New Zealand 155–165
- Australia to win by around 20–25 runs if batting first, or by 6–7 wickets if chasing.
Head-to-head record: New Zealand vs Australia in T20Is
The trans-Tasman rivalry has been one-sided in T20Is, with Australia holding a clear edge over New Zealand. Out of 19 matches played between the two sides, Australia have won 13, while New Zealand have managed just 6 victories.
- Total matches: 19
- New Zealand wins: 6
- Australia wins: 13
- Tied/No result: 0
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Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
Batters to watch
Daryl Mitchell (NZ): The middle-order batter has been in excellent touch, averaging above 45 in T20Is this year with a strike rate of 130+. His finishing ability and recent crucial knocks against South Africa and Zimbabwe make him New Zealand’s batting mainstay.
Glenn Maxwell (AUS): A proven match-winner in the shortest format, Maxwell has piled up 200+ runs in 2025 at a strike rate above 140. Batting in the middle order, he has the ability to shift momentum instantly with explosive stroke play.
Bowlers to watch
Michael Bracewell (NZ): The skipper and all-rounder brings balance to the side, combining tight middle-overs bowling with handy cameos. His recent figures of 1/29 and 1/16 against South Africa highlight his knack for breakthroughs at key moments.
Adam Zampa (AUS): Australia’s go-to spinner in T20Is, Zampa has claimed 11 wickets this year at an average under 18 and an economy rate below 7. His control in the middle overs and ability to dismiss top-order batters make him a constant threat.
NZ vs. AUS betting odds & tips: Who has the edge?
According to Dafabet, Australia are strong favourites at 1.46, while New Zealand are priced at 2.73. Australia’s settled squad and recent T20 form give them a clear edge, though New Zealand’s home advantage and young talent could make them a dark-horse threat.
Odds* (click here to bet) | |
New Zealand | 2.73 |
Australia | 1.46 |
*odds are correct at the time of publish
New Zealand vs Australia: Expected playing XIs and team news
New Zealand Team News
Michael Bracewell takes charge with Mitchell Santner sidelined following abdominal surgery. The Black Caps are missing key quicks Adam Milne, Lockie Ferguson, and Ben O’Rourke, though Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears return to strengthen the pace unit. Several fresh faces are part of the setup, highlighting New Zealand’s intent to test new talent as they prepare for the upcoming global cycle.
New Zealand (predicted playing XI): Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell (c), Bevon Jacobs, Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears, Tim Robinson, Matt Henry
Australia Team News
Mitchell Marsh leads a near full-strength, settled squad. Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis slot back into the XI, while David Warner continues to provide explosive starts at the top. With Mitchell Starc retired from T20Is, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa headline the attack. The Aussies look to extend their strong run and retain the Chappell-Hadlee bragging rights.
Australia (predicted playing XI): David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis (wk), Tim David, Sean Abbott, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis
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NZ vs. AUS live scorecard: 1st T20I
To follow the action between New Zealand vs Australia live, you can make use of the live scorecard feature on Parimatch's website.
Navigate to the game of your choice and click the scorecard icon to follow along, and bet live with the action with a trusted site.
Where to watch NZ vs. AUS 1st T20I in India
- Venue: Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
- Date & Time (IST): Wednesday, October 1, 11:45 a.m
- Live Telecast & Streaming Details: Sony Sports Network
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