The Greatest T20 Game Ever?

I can't imagine a more exciting and compelling game of T20 than the game in Christchurch on Sunday. McCullum's innings was extraordinary in every aspect. In terms of statistics he reached his century of just 50 balls. This would be impressive against Central Districts, but against Australia it is almost beyond belief. There have been a number of fast 50's against Australia, notably Lance Cairns at the MCG off 20 balls, but to sustain that pace all the way to a century is unique.

Much has been said about his ramp shot, and I have to say it was almost surreal seeing balls by Shaun Tait at 155 kph being scooped well beyond the boundary. The difficulty level was put into perspective when Jacob Oram attempted something similar and had his stumps destroyed. The margin for error is minute, and McCullum just kept pulling it off.

The Australians paced their innings expertly and Cameron White seems to have the hitting power of Gilchrist at his peak. So it was was with some apprehension that I watched as Tim Southee was brought back into the attack when Australia appeared to be in control. Southee of course got hammered for 105 in his 10 overs at the same ground last year by India. He was dropped from the team after being so impressive against England the season before. Vettori deserves praise for entrusting Southee with the crucial 'super over' also. He could easily have gone for Bond or even himself (which were the two options the commentators were discussing). Southee delivered under incredible pressure in a manner reminiscent of Chris Pringle's match winning maiden over to Bruce Reid. Now hopefully he will go on to live up to his early promise.