Building on the momentum of their commanding victory in the first Test, England continued to assert their dominance on the opening day of the second Test in Wellington. After posting a competitive 280 in challenging conditions, England’s bowlers rattled New Zealand’s top order, leaving the hosts teetering at 86/5 by stumps.
The day began with England's batting lineup tested early by New Zealand’s disciplined attack. Reduced to 43/4 within the first 13 overs, the visitors seemed in trouble until Harry Brook and Ollie Pope staged another remarkable counterattack.
Brook, fresh from his sensational 171 in the first Test, carried his form into the Basin Reserve, smashing 123 off 115 balls. His knock, featuring 11 fours and 5 sixes, turned the tide after England's early collapse. Pope provided crucial support with a fluent 66, and their 174-run partnership for the fifth wicket proved pivotal.
Nathan Smith 4/86 and Will O’Rourke 3/49 led the New Zealand bowling effort, but a flurry of extras 22 runs gave flashbacks of nightmares from Christchurch.
Chasing England’s 280, New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start as Devon Conway fell for 11, nicking Gus Atkinson to the slips. Skipper Tom Latham 17 and Kane Williamson 37 attempted to stabilise the innings, but frequent breakthroughs from England's bowlers kept the pressure high.
Brydon Carse, claimed two crucial wickets, while Chris Woakes and Ben Stokes also struck at key moments. Williamson’s dismissal to Carse at 74/4 was a major blow, and when Daryl Mitchell followed shortly after for 6, New Zealand slumped to 86/5 at the close of play.
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