NZ vs ENG 3rd Test 1st day Highlights

On the first day of the third Test at Seddon Park, England’s Ben Stokes, and his teammates paid a moving tribute to retiring New Zealand pacer Tim Southee with a guard of honor. Accompanied by his daughter and teammates, Southee made his way to the crease for what was to be his final innings in Test cricket. Let’s look at the NZ vs ENG 3rd Test 1st day Highlights.

Despite England’s challenging position. Southee’s trademark aggressive style saw him blaze 23 runs off just 10 balls, including three towering sixes, equaling Chris Gayle’s record of 98 sixes in Test cricket. His cameo played a crucial role in New Zealand reaching 315/9 by the close of play on Day 1.

New Zealand Holds Firm Despite Key Mistakes

New Zealand began their innings strongly with a 105-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Will Young but lost momentum as England’s bowlers capitalized in the middle overs. Key middle-order wickets, including Kane Williamson (44) and Tom Blundell (21), fell due to lapses in concentration.

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Williamson’s dismissal was particularly costly, as he was undone by an extra bounce from Matthew Potts, getting bowled after attempting to kick the ball away from his stumps. Despite these setbacks, New Zealand fought back, with late contributions from Mitchell Santner, who scored an unbeaten 50. New Zealand ended Day 1 at 315/9, putting up a solid total despite the batting collapses.

England Take Advantage of New Zealand’s Mistakes

Matt Potts marked an excellent return to the England side with 3 wickets for 75, taking down Kane Williamson for the fourth time in five innings. Despite New Zealand’s solid 105-run opening partnership, England’s seamers eventually fought back with six wickets in the final session.

Potts, alongside Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse, spearheaded England’s efforts. Stokes showcased his pace, while Atkinson earned three wickets. Although Carse battled blisters and cramps, his contributions were important. England’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, wrapping up New Zealand’s innings at 319/9 by the end of the day. With their dominance evident, England’s eyes are firmly set on completing a series clean sweep.

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