Hopes of a miracle win in Wellington by a Black Caps side outclassed for the majority of the test by the world champion Australians were quickly extinguished before lunch on the fourth day, giving the visitors a 1-o lead in the best-of-two series.
After bundling Australia out for a paltry 164 on the back of an unexpected 5-wicket haul from part-time spinner Glenn Phillips, the Kiwis briefly lifted the depression of the Basin Reserve faithful who cautiously entertained the possibility of completing an epic 369 run-chase which would have been the 10th highest in history.
