England ended Day 1 of the second Test against New Zealand at Wellington’s Basin Reserve in a commanding position, securing a 194-run lead. Harry Brook’s counter-attacking century and a lethal pace attack left the Kiwis struggling at 86/5 by stumps on Friday.
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, England faced early trouble, reduced to 43/4. Zak Crawley (17), Jacob Bethell (16), Ben Duckett (0), and Joe Root (3) failed to make significant contributions.
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However, Harry Brook and Ollie Pope turned the innings around with a 174-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Brook unleashed an aggressive knock of 123 off 115 balls, including 11 fours and five sixes, while Pope supported with a solid 66 off 78 balls, hitting seven fours and a six. Their efforts propelled England to 280 in 54.4 overs.
For New Zealand, Nathan Smith was the standout bowler with figures of 4/86, while Will O’Rourke (3/49) and Matt Henry (2/47) provided crucial support.
Chasing England’s total, New Zealand’s innings got off to a rocky start. Gus Atkinson dismissed Devon Conway for 11, leaving the hosts at 18/1. Skipper Tom Latham (17) and Kane Williamson (37) attempted to stabilize the innings, reaching 50 in 12.4 overs, but England’s bowlers struck back.
Ben Stokes removed Latham, while Chris Woakes sent Rachin Ravindra packing for three. Brydon Carse delivered a double blow, dismissing Williamson and Daryl Mitchell (6), leaving New Zealand reeling at 79/5. By stumps, Tom Blundell (7*) and Will O’Rourke (0*) were at the crease.
Carse was England’s most effective bowler, finishing the day with 2/28.
With a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, England’s strong start in the second Test has put them in a commanding position. Brook’s explosive century and the pacers’ precision have set the tone for another potential victory, while New Zealand faces an uphill battle to recover on Day 2.
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