New Zealand vs England 2nd Test Day 2 Updates: Gus Atkinson’s commanding performance helps England lead by 533 runs.

NZ vs ENG 2nd Test Day 2 Updates for England tour of New Zealand, 2024

Team England dominated Day 2 of the second Test in Wellington, leading by 533 runs at the stumps. Gus Atkinson took his maiden hat-trick, bundling New Zealand’s first innings for 125. However, England responded with Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell, as they built a strong foundation with their strong batting, while Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Stokes kept the scoreboard running, with Root and Stokes remaining unbeaten at the stumps. England’s dominance left New Zealand with 533 runs to climb in the remainder of the match. So let’s take a look at NZ vs ENG 2nd Test Day 2 Updates.

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Gus Atinkson’s Commanding Performance

England’s bowlers produced a stellar performance on Day 2 of the second Test in Wellington, which helped them gain a commanding 533-run lead. New Zealand resumed on 86/5 and easily fell apart under England’s pace attack. Brydon Carse made an early dismissal, dismissing Tom Blundell for 16 and Will O’Rourke for a duck in the same over.

Gus Atkinson delivered a masterclass with the ball, claiming a remarkable hat-trick. He bowled out Nathan Smith, had Matt Henry caught at gully, and trapped Tim Southee on lbw, becoming the first Englishman to take a Test hat-trick since Moeen Ali in 2017. Atkinson finished with 4/31 and Carse 4/46, dismissing New Zealand for 125.

England’s Batting Brilliance

England’s batting brilliance in Wellington has put New Zealand in a dangerous position, with 533 runs required for victory. After a solid opening stint, Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett scored a crucial 187-run partnership for the second wicket, both falling close to their centuries. Harry Brook followed with 55, while Joe Root, unbeaten on 73, and captain Ben Stokes, who scored a quickfire 35*, solidified the target.

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New Zealand’s bowlers struggled throughout the innings, with only Tim Southee’s late wicket of Duckett offered a relief. England’s 378/5 at stumps gives them a commanding position, leaving New Zealand with a monumental target to chase.

NZ vs ENG 2nd Test Day 2 Stumps