New Zealand fast bowler Chris Martin is looking forward to the challenge of facing Australia in the first Test to be played in Wellington from Friday.

Martin has a successful record at the Basin Reserve, fashioning a bowling average of 26.31 in eleven Tests played here so far.

It compares favourably with his overall test record of 180 wickets at an average of 33.78, in 54 matches.

Martin has, however, yet to taste similar success against Australia, with his average in eight tests 74.14, with best figures of five for 152.

"I have found that in the past that I have bowled as well as I could (against the Australians) without really getting the results," Martin said. (ANI)