OTD 2015 Williamson’s six seals one-wicket thriller against Australia

On this day in 2015, the New Zealand edged past the Australia by one wicket in a gripping ICC Cricket World Cup clash at Eden Park. In a tournament filled with big scores and dominant wins, the low-scoring contest between the two co-hosts stood out for its dramatic finish.

Australia opted to bat first but never quite settled. The atmosphere was intense from the outset, as Trent Boult made full use of the conditions. Swinging the ball both ways, Boult dismantled the top order and finished with outstanding figures of 5 for 27 as Australia slipped to 106 for 9 at one stage before being bowled out for 151 in just over 32 overs. It was a collapse few had anticipated given the depth in their batting line-up.

Chasing 152, New Zealand came out with clear intent. Brendon McCullum set the tone with a blistering start, racing to a half-century off just 24 balls. His aggressive approach put Australia on the back foot immediately, and New Zealand notched up 78 for 2 inside eight overs. At that point, the match seemed to be heading towards a comfortable finish.

But the game turned just as quickly as Mitchell Starc responded with a spell that completely shifted the momentum. His pace, swing and pinpoint yorkers triggered a collapse that stunned the home crowd, as wickets fell in clusters and New Zealand slipped to 146 for 9. Starc ended with remarkable figures of 6 for 28, keeping Australia alive in a contest that had appeared to be slipping away.

With six runs still required and only one wicket in hand, the pressure was immense. Kane Williamson, who had been batting steadily amidst the chaos, made a bold decision. Instead of chipping away in singles and risking exposure for the last man, he chose to go for the target outright. In the 24th over, he created room and struck a straight six down the ground to seal the win.

New Zealand finished on 152 for 9, completing a one-wicket victory that remains one of the most memorable matches World Cup history, as what looked straightforward chase 78 for 2 became a nerve-jangling contest, ultimately decided by one clean when it mattered most.

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