Auckland, Feb 28 (IANS): New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum Saturday praised the pace spearheads of both sides as the hosts scraped past Australia to win by one wicket in a Pool A World Cup encounter here at the Eden Park here.

Left-armer Trent Boult was outstanding in the first half of the innings being instrumental in wrapping up Australia for 151 -- picking up his career best One-Day International(ODI) figures of five for 27 from 10 overs.

It was not an easy chase for New Zealand as Mitchell Starc came out all guns firing, clinching six for 28 in nine overs -- his best bowling figures so far. The Black Caps managed to win the game eventually with a wicket in hand.

"One hell of a game. Both teams showed what quality their bowlers are. Starc for them and Boult for us, both were outstanding and the support was outstanding as well. We saw some great pace and swing bowling," McCullum said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

The 33-year-old added that the contest proved that low scoring games can be entertaining too.

"We want to be an aggressive team with bat, ball and on the field as well. Everyone wants to see 300 scores, but 150 is great as well," concluded McCullum.