NZ vs ENG Day 2: Anderson And Leach Put New Zealand On The Defensive
Anderson ripped through NZ top order [Twitter]
England's old warhorse James Anderson and spin sensation Jack Leach caused mayhem on day 2 of the ongoing second Test as New Zealand faltered at 138 for seven in 42 overs, chasing England's first innings total of 435 runs, before the rain once again played spoilsport.
What transpired on day 2?
With 315 runs already on the board at the start of day 2, the visitors managed to extend their overnight total by another 120 runs. Harry Brook, who has been in great form, could only add two runs to his overnight score before being dismissed by Matt Henry for 186 runs.
Joe Root, the experienced campaigner and former England captain, built on his overnight score of 101 runs by adding 52 runs to remain unbeaten on 153 runs, as England declared their innings at 435 runs for the loss of eight wickets.
Captain Ben Stokes, along with Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson, also made valuable contributions to the team's total score. Stokes made a quickfire 27 runs off just 28 balls, with five boundaries to his name, while Broad and Robinson added 14 and 18 runs respectively.
How did New Zealand fare with the bat?
Upon taking to the crease, the hosts' batting line-up once again appeared unsettled against England's bowling attack, with James Anderson in particular posing a significant threat for the Kiwis from the beginning.
James Anderson got the early breakthrough for England, dismissing Devon Conway for a three-ball duck. The delivery angled in and around off, resulting in a faint edge of the bat that was comfortably taken by the keeper.
Kane Williamson and Will Young failed to make an impact with the bat, both dismissed for single-digit scores. The most significant partnership for the Kiwis came from Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls, who put together a 39-run stand for the fourth wicket.
Despite showing some promise, Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls were both dismissed by Jack Leach when they were in their 30s. Latham scored 35 runs off 76 balls, while Nicholls scored his 30 runs at a decent rate with the help of five boundaries.
Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell struggled to get going, scoring just 13 and six runs, respectively. While Leach spun his way to Mitchell's dismissal, Broad had Bracewell's number.
The Kiwis finally seemed to be getting into their stride with Tom Blundell and skipper Tim Southee at the crease. The duo were eyeing a big partnership before rain interrupted play yet again.
The day's play ended with Blundell holding fort on 25 not out, while Southee blazed his way to 23 off just 18 balls. New Zealand put up 138 runs on the board but lost seven wickets in 42 overs before play was stopped due to bad weather.
Brief Score:
England: 435/8 (87.1 Overs)
Harry Brook 186 (176), Joe Root 153* (224); Matt Henry 4/100 (22.1), Michael Bracewell 2/54 (11)
New Zealand: 138/7 (42 Overs)
Tom Latham 35 (76), Henry Nicholls 30 (38); James Anderson 3/37 (10), Jack Leach 3/45 (12)
New Zealand trail by 297 runs
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