order batsman Grant Elliott kept a cool head to steer New Zealand to a six-wicket win over Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Friday. Elliot remained unbeaten on 61 for Kiwis's second straight win over Kangaroos in the five-match One-Day International series. The visitors are now one win away from a series win. Earlier, Michael Clarke, opening the innings with D. Warner led from the front with 98 in an Australian total of 225-5 in 50 overs. But for Michael Hussey who ground out 75 from 94 balls none could help boost Australia's total. Maintaining its form New Zealand began steadily toward victory with opener B.McCullum making 43 from 75 balls. The Kiwis coasted home with 7 deliveries left. In the field Australia was sloppy and with the bat uninspired. Hussey and Clarke both put down chances – Clarke's a very tough one – an easy run-out opportunity was missed and there were fumbles and overthrows. Ross Taylor's 47 featured three fours and when he edged behind late in the chase it gave Australia a sniff. But Elliott was superbly calm and his second ODI half-century, along with some excellent support from Neil Broom, ensured that New Zealand did not let the required run-rate balloon beyond control. The result was terrific for a New Zealand side that enjoys chasing and made the most of the chance to send Australia in. Kyle Mills and Daniel Vettori were the most economical of the bowlers and Iain O'Brien chipped in with the two important wickets of Clarke and Hussey. Importantly, the visitors were sharp in the field. The team now head into Sunday's match in Sydney again without Ponting and in serious danger of handing back the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy. Australia was without the injured Shaun Marsh and the resting Ricky Ponting. Scores: Australia 225-5 (Clarke 98, M.Hussey 75, O'Brien 2-48). New Zealand 226-4 (Elliott 61 not out, McCullum 43, Taylor 47, Hopes 2
