Carey wills Australians to famous win in Christchurch

A superb Alex Carey knock proved the difference as the Australians came away with an unlikely, three-wicket win over the Black Caps in Christchurch.

Chasing 279, Australia entered the day at 4-for-77 after a Day 3 collapse in which Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green all fell for less than a dozen to have the side reeling at 4-for-34.

After a delayed start, Travis Head slapped one off the bowling of Tim Southee to Will Young at point for just 18 as the visitors slumped to 5-for-80.

After being dropped in similar fashion the previous ball, Mitch Marsh was joined at the crease by Alex Carey who had notched just two scores over 40 in his previous 18 innings.

The pair put together a sublime stand both surpassing the half-century mark as the total drew nearer by the over.

Marsh was caught in front of his stumps for 80 as the partnership ended at 140 with 59 runs still to hit.

Mitchell Starc was dismissed for a golden duck the following ball as momentum shifted back the way of the New Zealanders.

Instead, it was Carey and captain Pat Cummins – who has put together several major knocks across multiple formats over the past 12 months – that dragged the Australians to victory and extended the side’s unbeaten streak against their neighbours.

Carey finished on an unbeaten 98 and Cummins an unbeaten 32 with the former earning a Player of the Match nod.