London, June 5: The first match of the three-Test series between England and New Zealand at Lord’s has reached an exciting phase. In a match dominated by bowlers, New Zealand must chase down a target of 254 runs in their fourth innings.
On the second day (Saturday), England’s second innings concluded at 226 runs. The innings started well, with Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay forming a partnership of 52 runs for the first wicket. Duckett was dismissed for 33 runs, leaving the score at 52. A second-wicket partnership of 47 runs between Emilio and Bethel followed, but Bethel was out for 14 runs. Subsequently, a 27-run partnership between Root and Emilio brought the score to 126, where Emilio was dismissed for 57 runs.
England’s innings then faltered, losing three wickets for just one run, collapsing from 126 to 127. Gus Atkinson and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith formed a crucial partnership of 57 runs for the seventh wicket. Atkinson scored 14 runs before being dismissed. Smith then added 29 runs with Ollie Robinson for the eighth wicket, scoring 39 runs before getting out at 213. England’s innings ultimately ended at 226 runs, with Robinson dismissed for 29 runs as the last wicket.
For New Zealand, right-arm fast bowler Nathan Smith was the standout performer, taking 6 wickets for 70 runs in 17 overs. Will O’Rourke claimed 2 wickets, while Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry each took 1 wicket.
Earlier, New Zealand’s first innings was restricted to 113 runs, trailing England by 27 runs. England had been bowled out for 140 runs in their first innings on the first day.
With a 27-run lead from the first innings, England has set New Zealand a target of 254 runs. New Zealand has the last session of the second day and the entire three days ahead to achieve this target.
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