New Zealand vs England: England gains the upper hand after getting New Zealand after 86/5
On Day 1 of the Test at Basin Reserve, England scored 280 in 54.4 overs, led by Harry Brook’s 123 off 115 balls and Ollie Pope’s 66. Nathan Smith claimed 4/86. New Zealand struggled in reply, reaching 86/5 in 26 overs, with Kane Williamson top-scoring with 37. Brydon Carse impressed with 2/28, leaving the match evenly poised.
With the second Test between England and New Zealand underway at the Basin Reserve, Wellington, the first day saw gripping cricket as England finished their innings at 280 in 54.4 overs, with New Zealand at 86/5 at stumps. Opting to bowl first, New Zealand’s pacers made early inroads.
Matt Henry and Nathan Smith dismantled England’s top order, reducing them to 43/4. Harry Brook’s scintillating 123 off 115 balls (11 fours, 5 sixes) and Ollie Pope’s composed 66 off 78 balls rescued England with a 174-run stand for the fifth wicket. However, a lower-order collapse, triggered by Will O’Rourke (3/49) and Nathan Smith (4/86), restricted England.
In reply, New Zealand struggled against England’s disciplined bowling. Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Ben Stokes each claimed vital wickets. Kane Williamson was the lone bright spot for New Zealand, scoring 37 off 56 balls before falling to Carse.
At 86/5, with Tom Blundell (7) and Will O’Rourke (0) at the crease, New Zealand trailed by 194 runs. The day was marked by sharp fielding, including Brook’s direct-hit run-out of Brook. England’s pace attack kept a tight leash, with Woakes (1/18 in 7 overs) being particularly economical. Day 2 promises an intense battle as England aims to consolidate their advantage.
Comments