†AUSTRALIA v NEW ZEALAND 1980-81

At Melbourne, December 7. Australia won by four wickets. New Zealand were captained by Burgess, Howarth having injured a hand in trying to take a high catch in the match against Southern New South Wales at Wagga Wagga two days earlier. Not for the first time New Zealand were let down by their middle-order batsmen after being given an excellent start by Wright and Edgar made in the first 25 overs. The first wicket fell when Edgar was thrown out by Wood, going for a second run to fine-leg. After that Pascoe, Lillee and Greg Chappell went through the New Zealand innings and Australia were left with only 157 for victory. Although they soon lost Dyson, Man of the Match Border and Greg Chappell put on 92 for the second wicket and Australia achieved their victory in reasonable comfort.