A new chapter in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries is set to begin as New Zealand vs Australia 1st T20I gets underway at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on October 1, 2025. This opening clash of the three-match series is expected to set the tone for an electrifying contest between two powerhouse cricketing nations.
Venue – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Date – October 1, 2025
Time – 11:45 AM, 06:15 AM GMT / 07:15 PM LOCAL
For New Zealand, this is an opportunity to test young talents in the absence of some senior stars, while Australia enters the contest with confidence as reigning T20 World Champions. Both sides will use this series as a key preparation for upcoming global tournaments. Fans across the globe are eagerly waiting for this historic trans-Tasman showdown.
Know more about the New Zealand vs Australia 1st T20I and Australian Tour of New Zealand: Australian Tour of New Zealand 2025
Team News and Updates
New Zealand: The Black Caps enter with a fresh-looking squad, captained by Mitchell Santner. Key senior players are unavailable, but that opens the door for young guns like Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra to shine. With an exciting mix of youth and experience, New Zealand will look to use home advantage to unsettle the Aussies.
Australia: Skipper Mitchell Marsh leads a dynamic side packed with explosive batters and crafty bowlers. With Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20Is, Australia’s bowling attack will rely heavily on Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa. The return of Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis strengthens their all-round depth.
NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Probable Playing 11
| New Zealand Probable XI | Australia Probable XI |
|---|---|
| Finn Allen | Travis Head |
| Tim Seifert (wk) | Josh Inglis (wk) |
| Rachin Ravindra | Mitchell Marsh (c) |
| Daryl Mitchell | Glenn Maxwell |
| Glenn Phillips | Tim David |
| Michael Bracewell | Marcus Stoinis |
| Mitchell Santner (c) | Cameron Green |
| Adam Milne | Adam Zampa |
| Ish Sodhi | Nathan Ellis |
| Matt Henry | Josh Hazlewood |
| Ben Sears | Sean Abbott |
New Zealand vs Australia Head to Head T20
- Matches Played: 19
- New Zealand Wins: 6
- Australia Wins: 13
In the last five T20Is, Australia won three, including a nail-biter in February 2024, where they chased down the target with one ball to spare.
Know more aboutthe upcoming series: More cricket series
Key Player Battles in NZ vs AUS 1st T20I
- Finn Allen vs Josh Hazlewood: Allen’s aggressive strokeplay against Hazlewood’s precision could decide the tone of the innings.
- Glenn Phillips vs Adam Zampa: A high-stakes middle-over duel with Phillips’ hitting power against Zampa’s clever variations.
- Mitchell Santner vs Glenn Maxwell: Two captains, two all-rounders, both capable of changing the match with bat or ball.
Players to Watch Out For
- Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand): A rising star who has been in great form with both bat and ball.
- Travis Head (Australia): Known for fearless hitting, Head can put New Zealand bowlers under pressure in the powerplay.
Expert Opinions and NZ vs AUS 1st T20I Match Prediction
Most experts back Australia due to their depth and experience, but New Zealand at home is always dangerous. Expect a high-scoring contest with both teams pushing hard in this iconic rivalry.
NZ vs AUS 1st T20I match prediction: Australia start favorites, but if New Zealand’s young batters fire, the game could go down to the wire.
Pitch and Weather Report – Bay Oval
- Pitch: Balanced wicket, good for stroke play. First innings score ~158 is par. Pacers get help early, spinners play a role later.
- Weather: Pleasant, partly cloudy skies with minimal chances of rain. Perfect conditions for cricket.
During New Zealand vs Australia 1st T20I, the weather may vary, so it may be critical.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
| Country | Live Streaming | Broadcast TV |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | TVNZ+ App, TVNZ website | TVNZ Duke |
| Australia | Kayo Sports, Foxtel Go | FOX CRICKET |
Conclusion
The New Zealand vs Australia 1st T20I promises fireworks at Bay Oval. With both teams in transition, this clash is about more than just points — it’s about pride, rivalry, and momentum. Australia might start strong on paper, but the Black Caps’ home advantage and fearless youngsters make this a battle to remember.
FAQs
When and where is the New Zealand vs Australia 1st T20I scheduled?
The match will be played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on October 1, 2025.
What is the New Zealand vs Australia head to head T20 record?
Out of 19 T20Is, Australia has won 13 while New Zealand has won 6.
Where can I watch NZ vs AUS 1st T20I live streaming?
Fans in New Zealand can watch via TVNZ+, while Australian viewers can tune into Kayo Sports and FOX CRICKET.
What is the NZ vs AUS 1st T20I probable playing 11?
Both sides will feature star players — Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips for NZ, and Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa for AUS.
What is the NZ vs AUS 1st T20I match prediction?
Experts slightly favor Australia due to squad depth, but New Zealand’s home advantage keeps the contest finely balanced.