by Our Sports Desk

BRENDON McCULLUM marked his last one-day international for New Zealand yesterday with a match and series victory over Australia.

McCullum’s farewell seemed likely to be soured by a dramatic batting collapse which saw New Zealand lose its last six wickets for 23 runs to be all out for 246, but the bowlers dismissed Australia for 191 with more than six overs to spare, winning by 55 runs to clinch a 2-1 series victory.

Australia had been on target for victory when on 164-5 but the controversial dismissal of Mitch Marsh exposed the tail and New Zealand’s bowlers quickly wrapped up the win.

Marsh was given out caught and bowled by Matt Henry when his forcing shot hit the toe of his boot and carried to the bowler, who took the ball low down.

Neither Henry nor any of the New Zealand fielders appealed, thinking the ball had hit the ground, and it wasn’t until the incident was replayed on the big screen at Seddon Park that spectators saw the ball had come off Marsh’s boot and began to boo.

English umpire Ian Gould then referred it to the third umpire, who gave Marsh out.

The Australians questioned whether the matter could be referred to replay if none of the New Zealand players appealed and the umpire on the ground had not given a decision.

McCullum produced a signature innings on his farewell, hitting 47 runs from 27 balls to give New Zealand a bold beginning as it batted after losing the toss.

He hit three sixes to lift his tally to 200 sixes in 260 one-day internationals, placing him fourth on the all-time list behind Shahid Afridi (351), Sanath Jayasuriya (270) and Chris Gayle (238).

McCullum was able to savour a last and memorable win over New Zealand’s greatest rival.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky to play for 14 years and to represent my country and to play with some great blokes,” he said.

“When you play against Australia you have to turn up and play your best cricket and tonight for 80 per cent of the game we were outstanding.”