The BLACKCAPS begin their 2007/08 Chappell-Hadlee campaign enjoying a rare distinction in world cricket – having the edge over the world champion Australians.
Daniel Vettori’s team open their defence of trans-Tasman cricket’s ODI trophy at Adelaide, with counterpart Ricky Ponting back in the side and ready to take on a new adversary after his tussles with Stephen Fleming.
The Kiwis carry the silverware into this contest, and also move into this season’s edition of the tournament with more match wins – five, compared to the hosts’ three, after last season’s 3-0 whitewash.
Since the BLACKCAPS claimed the trophy in Hamilton, Australia have gone on to retain the World Cup for a second time.
Ponting missed the trip across the ditch last year, and Tuesday Twenty20 international between the sides in Perth.
Andrew Symonds, who made an unbeaten 85, twisted his ankle in the field at the WACA, but will be considered for action, but Brett Lee has picked up a virus.
The BLACKCAPS retained the team from the 54-run defeat in Western Australia, adding Chris Martin to the 12-man match-day squad.
Australia: Ricky Ponting (captain), Adam Gilchrist (vice-captain), Nathan Bracken, Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Brad Hogg, James Hopes, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Andrew Symonds, Shaun Tait.
BLACKCAPS: Daniel Vettori (captain), Mark Gillespie, Jamie How, Chris Martin, Kyle Mills, Brendon McCullum, Jacob Oram, Jeetan Patel, Mathew Sinclair, Scott Styris, Ross Taylor, Lou Vincent
Australia v BLACKCAPS, 1st Chappell-Hadlee ODI, Adelaide (4pm NZ time)
Follow the game on BLACKCAPS.co.nz; Sky Sports or Radio Sport.
