In a commanding display of pace bowling, seamer Josh Hazlewood led a formidable Australian attack, limiting New Zealand to 162 all out at tea on day one of the second Test in Christchurch on Friday. Hazlewood claimed impressive figures of 5-31, while Mitchell Starc contributed with 3-59, as Australia, playing with an unchanged lineup, aimed to sweep the two-Test series.
Opting to bat on a green-tinged surface after winning the toss, New Zealand’s openers, Tom Latham and Will Young, initially resisted Australia’s efforts. The pair’s resilient stand pushed New Zealand to 47 within the first 90 minutes. However, the innings crumbled after Young was dismissed for 14.
Latham contributed 38 runs before departing, and Rachin Ravindra fell for four, concluding the session with New Zealand at 79 for three. The team then lost five wickets for just 28 runs.
Kane Williamson, marking his milestone 100th Test, managed only 17 before falling victim to Hazlewood. Despite seeking a review, Williamson recognized the lost cause and began walking before the three red lights were displayed.
Hazlewood continued his dominance, claiming the wickets of Latham and Daryl Mitchell, both caught by wicketkeeper Alex Carey, along with Ravindra caught by Usman Khawaja at first slip.
Wicketkeeper Carey showcased an outstanding performance, taking five catches, including Tom Blundell off Cameron Green and Glenn Phillips off Starc, who followed up by dismissing Scott Kuggeleijn lbw with the next delivery.
Hazlewood further contributed by catching Southee, providing Cummins a wicket, and finishing the innings in the next over by having Henry caught behind. Australia’s pace attack asserted control on day one, aiming to continue their dominance in the series.
