Bond bowls Kiwis to 77-run win over Australia

Fast bowler Shane Bond took five for 25 and opener Nathan Astle top-scored with 95 as New Zealand thrashed Australia by 77 runs in their limited-overs international on Saturday.

New Zealand made 242 for five from their 50 overs before dismissing Australia for 165 in 45.2 overs.

The World Cup champions were rocked at the start of their innings, losing four wickets for 26 runs in 7.2 overs, and never fully recovered, despite a fifth-wicket stand of 71 between Australia captain Steve Waugh (30) and Michael Bevan (45).

Earlier, all-rounder Chris Cairns, fresh from his unbeaten 102 in New Zealand's win over South Africa seven days ago, smashed three sixes and one four for a 23-ball 39 not out.

In partnership with fellow all-rounder Chris Harris, who made a quickfire 19, Cairns put on 45 for the unbroken sixth wicket in only 5.3 overs to lift New Zealand above 240.

New Zealand remain at the top of the standings on 17 points from five matches in the triangular series, ahead of Australia on nine and South Africa on eight.

New Zealand play South Africa in Adelaide on Sunday.

Detailed Scorecard | Images from the match

Mail Cricket Editor