The Trans-Tasman rivalry between Australia and New Zealand has produced many exciting battles over the years. But things have changed drastically over the past year. The last two series between these rivals have been a dampener to say the least. Australia whitewashed their opponents the last time these two teams met Down Under, and only the rain gods prevented yet another complete annihilation for New Zealand this time round. Australia's nine-wicket triumph at Auckland was ample proof of the widening gap between these two cricketing nations.

As expected, Australia dominated the series. But knowing New Zealand, one expected them to put up a fight. The Kiwis are by no means the most feared team in the world. But they are indeed one of the most respected opponents, as they make up for their lack of natural talent by putting in that much extra and combining well as a team overall. It wasn't enough against the mighty Aussies though, who steamrolled their opponents for a 2-0 series victory.

There is nothing new to write home about for the visitors. But just for the record, Ricky Ponting continued to lead from the front with a superlative ton at Auckland, followed by a whirlwind 86 in the second innings to finish off the game inside four days. The openers Justin Langer and Matthew Hayden continued to provide the good starts. But for a change, both failed to score heavily, something which they are renowned for.

Batting-wise, the series definitely belonged to Adam Gilchrist, the greatest wicket-keeper batsman of all time. He thrashed a century in the first Test when his team needed it the most and followed it up with another one in the rain-affected second Test. He missed out at Auckland as he was left stranded with the tail and ended up with yet another crucial contribution of 60 n.o. The innings helped the Aussies take a very important lead, which made a huge difference to the end result. Simon Katich combined well with Gilchrist to get a ton in the opening Test and with a few more decisive contributions, went on to complete his 1000 runs in Test cricket. Damien Martyn got his now mandatory century in a series, a well-compiled 165 at Wellington.

The 'Pigeon' Glenn McGrath was at his devastating best even at this fag end of his career. His bursts had the New Zealanders reeling on more than one occasion. And Shane Warne took full advantage of this, adding to his tally which took him even closer to the elusive 600-wicket mark. Warne also made a good contribution with the bat in the second Test, thrashing the Kiwi bowlers all round the park for a breezy half-century. Michael Kasprowicz was at his efficient best for the most part. Overall, Australia did not do any harm to their reputation as the supreme team in the world with their performances in the series.

The Kiwis, on the other hand, were inflicted with a lot of wounds by the World Champions. Stephen Fleming had a rather rotten time with the bat, especially against the ever-accurate Glenn McGrath. Except for a dogged knock of 65, he had nothing to show for his performance with the willow, unlike his opposite number who enjoyed tremendous success with the bat. With Chris Cairns having called it quits for the longer version, New Zealanders dearly lacked experience in the bowling department. James Franklin was the most impressive of the Kiwi bowlers, claiming his first five-wicket haul. Franklin, who also had a couple of good hits with the bat, however failed to get too much support from the other end. Chris Martin, his new-ball partner, did not make much of an impression on the Aussie batsmen. Daniel Vettori tried his best, but was not effective enough to leave his stamp on the series with the ball. Off- spinner Paul Wiseman got yet another recall to the Test side, but he was nothing more than economical in his spells.

There were a few positives though for the home team. Hamish Marshall was undoubtedly the best batsman on show from the Kiwi side. He stood up to the Aussie attack and stamped his authority as a batsman of class. His century in the first Test was one that will be remembered for a long time by the ones who witnessed it for the sheer quality of the innings. Nathan Astle too made some vital contributions. The veteran of many a battle, Astle though failed to get the big ones which could have helped the Kiwis put Australia under pressure.

Lou Vincent, who got a chance to prove his worth to the team, failed to make full use of the opportunity. He did make a couple of decent scores though, which might help him retain his spot in the team. Vettori might not have troubled the Aussies much with his spin, but he definitely stood like a rock against the Australian bowlers while batting. After his exploits with the bat in the last few series, he's slowly but surely developing into a genuine all-rounder for New Zealand. Another name worth mentioning is Craig Cumming. The opener made a good start to his Test career with a sparkling 74 in his debut knock but towards the end learnt that Test cricket is no bed of roses courtesy the tight Aussie new ball bowling.

The bottom-line is that Australia completely dominated the series and New Zealand still have a long way to go before they can give their Trans-Tasman rivals a run for their money.