Australia v New Zealand: how much does Aussies’ Cricket World Cup loss to Black Caps matter?

NEW ZEALAND’S thrilling win over Australia might have made for great viewing, but how important will it really be in the overall scheme of the tournament?

New Zealand's Trent Boult celebrates his 5th wicket bowling Mitchell Starc during ICC Cricket World Cup match between Australia and New Zealand in Auckland. pic. Phil Hillyard

NEW ZEALAND’S thrilling one-wicket win over Australia might have made for great viewing, but how important will it really be in the overall scheme of the tournament?

The Kiwis may have gained a psychological advantage over their neighbours across the Tasman after causing a dramatic Aussie bating collapse but that was somewhat negated by the Black Caps’ own batting wobbles late on at Eden Park.

To help Australian fans console themselves, here are five reasons why Saturday’s result doesn’t really matter.

David Warner departs after being trapped lbw by Tim Southee. Picture: Phil Hillyard.

1. It wasn’t the final

If Australia is losing sleep over this one they don’t know the World Cup format. Nothing matters until the quarter-finals.

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2. Australia landed the bigger blow

Michael Clarke’s team left with bruised egos, but the mark left on Brendon McCullum’s forearm could be far more significant in the final wash-up. New Zealand can’t afford to lose their No.1 matchwinner.

3. If we meet again, it will probably be at the MCG

Australia would have to lose to Sri Lanka next week in Sydney to be forced into an Eden Park return for the semi-finals. That’s not impossible but the more likely scenario is an Australia v New Zealand final – with the Black Caps taken out of their comfort zone at the MCG.

Australia captain Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin assess the situation. Picture: Phil Hillyard.

4. We needed a wake-up call

Who can blame Australia for falling asleep since their last game two weeks ago? They weren’t the only ones nodding off. A bit of rust was understandable and it could be the wake-up call Clarke’s side needed. Better off getting it out of the road now.

5. Mitchell Starc is the best bowler in the World Cup

Starc’s emphatic six-wicket haul was remarkable stuff and got Australia within one more scalp of one of the most incredible turnarounds ever. Starc has stepped up as a genuine superstar with the white ball and in many ways has surpassed Mitchell Johnson as the key man in the attack. If Australia can almost defend 151, they can beat anyone this World Cup.