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NZ vs ENG, 2nd Session: Harry Brook's fireworks push New Zealand on the back foot

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Since Brendon McCullum has taken over the reins as their head coach in Tests, England have created their image as a ruthless batting unit in the purest format. 

Their habit of playing an aggressive brand of cricket regardless of the conditions has proved fruitful for them yet again, as the Englishmen eye at a mammoth first innings total in the ongoing first Test against New Zealand at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. 


How the battle panned out? 

The session began with England placed at 134 for two in 23 overs, with Joe Root and Ollie Pope batting on 9* and 30*, respectively. But the hosts got rid of both of them inside 4.2 overs, getting an early advantage in the session. 

Although skipper Ben Stokes and Harry Brook stitched a 55 run-stand for the fifth wicket, debutant Scott Kuggeleijn dismissed the former to leave England in disarray at 209 for 5. 

However, Brook continued his assault on the Kiwi bowlers, hammering a breathtaking 64-ball 79*. The swashbuckling right-hander took all the host bowlers to the cleaners, getting ample support from Ben Foakes at the other end. 

The valiant efforts of both these batters set the tone for a massive first innings total for the visitors, powering them to 279 for five at dinner on day 1. 


Talking points

  • Joe Root and Ben Stokes got out, falling prey to their ultra-aggressive approach. 
  • Harry Brook has cemented his spot in the Test XI for the time being, and it will be a happy headache for England to pick one between him and Jonny Bairstow when the latter makes his comeback. 
  • New Zealand bowlers have been disappointing with respect to their lengths, pounding it short time and again on a pitch assisting the seamers. So, they must reassess and come up with better line and length in the final session. 

Expectations from the final session

Harry Brook is expected to complete his century. If New Zealand dismiss him early, they can wrap things up quickly and get a few overs to bat in the final session. 


Brief Scores

England: 279/5 (48)
Harry Brook 79*(64), Ben Foakes 27* (33);
Tim Southee 2/71, Scott Kuggeleijn 1/51