NZ vs AUS First Test, Day 2 Highlights: Turning points, match analysis, stats and more

New Zealand and Australia continued their ongoing Test match at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. Both sides took centre stage on Day 2 of the clash after Australia ended the first day on a score of 279 runs with the loss of nine wickets. Cameron Green, who finished day 1 on a score of 103 runs, went on to play a knock of 174 runs, stabilising Australia’s innings.  

The visitors posted a total of 383 runs in the first innings of the clash. As for New Zealand, Matt Henry was the highest wicket-taker for his side in the first innings, with five wickets to his name. William O’Rourke and Scott Kuggeleijn took two wickets each, with Rachin Ravindra striking once. 

Coming into the game, New Zealand aimed to put in a good performance. However, the side fell to the relentless pressure of Australia’s bowling attack. New Zealand opened with Tom Latham and Will Young scoring just five and nine runs, respectively. Furthermore, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra were sent packing for ducks. 

Glenn Phillips stabilised the innings for the Black Caps after the top order’s collapse. Phillips amassed 71 runs in 70 deliveries. Tom Blundell added 33 runs on the board, with Matt Henry scoring 42, as the hosts were bundled out for a score of 179 runs in the first innings. 

As for Australia, Nathan Lyon was the highest wicket taker for his side, with four wickets to his name. Josh Hazlewood took two wickets, with Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Marsh striking once each as Australia put in a performance for the ages. 

Seeing their performance with the bat, New Zealand looked to improve with the ball, and the side did just that. As Australia came out to bat, hoping to post a big target for the hosts to chase down, opener Steve Smith fell prey to skipper Tim Southee for a duck.

Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed for just two runs, and Day 2 of the clash ended with Australia having scored 13 runs with the loss of two wickets and a lead of 217 runs.

Here's how X reacted to day 2 of the first Test: