Santner rues missed opportunity for New Zealand

Mitchell Santner paid tribute to Mitchell Marsh and John Hastings for taking Australia away from a difficult position against New Zealand.

The Black Caps looked in a strong position in Wellington after taking six wickets for 75 runs to reduce the tourists to 197-6 in the 33rd over.

Santner (3-47) was a key part of the hosts' bowling attack as their defence of 281-9 appeared to be going well.

However, they failed to maintain their momentum as Marsh (69 not out) and Hastings (48no) put together an 86-run partnership to level the three-match series with one to play.

"We were in a pretty good spot when they were six down and we tried to stick to the plans and knew if we got one more we were right in it," said the all-rounder. "Fair play to Mitch and John, that was a serious partnership.

"In our innings we lost wickets at key times when we were trying to build partnerships but we did all right to get to 280 which was reasonably competitive."

Captain Brendon McCullum echoed Santner's comments, but felt his side failed to reach a high enough level to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

He said: "I thought we were okay. That summed up the game, we were just okay.

"Australia played well under pressure. We are still learning a little bit.

"Australia took their opportunities and deserved to win."