A welcome 98 run innings from Alex Carey along with a bombastic 80 run innings from Mitchell Marsh were enough to take Australia to another sweet victory against their Trans-Tasman neighbours. New Zealanders were eyeing a historical Test win against Australia which never transpired in the end. Debutant Ben Sears bowled his heart out but to no avail. Australia won the series 2-0 to end their cricketing summer in a perfect manner.
Team Lineups
Australia has fielded an unchanged side for the second time in this series. Steve Smith is still settling in his opening berth after the retirement of David Warner. Cameron Green finally justified his number four position in the batting order with a match winning performance in the first Test match at Basin Reserve. Marnus Labuschage and Alex Carey have recently come under heavy criticism after their constant failures with the bat. Travis Head is also underperforming with the bat since his heroics in the World Cup final.
The fabulous four in bowling with the pace trio of Patrick Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood looks settled as ever. These three bowlers offer different options for the captain Cummins throughout the game. Nathan Lyon is constantly moving towards new records having secured another ten-wicket haul in the last match.
New Zealand created history by defeating a South African side in a Test series for the first time in their history. However, their performances have been well below par in this series. They have made one change to their team that was comprehensively beaten in the last Test match at Basin Reserve. Will O”Rourke made way for Ben Sears who made his debut in the Test format. The New Zealand batting department failed miserably in the first Test match with Tom Latham enduring a bad patch in his career. Kane Williamson failed in both innings when the Kiwis needed their talismanic batsman to perform. Daryl Mitchell also struggled to play shots regularly in the first Test.
Rachin Ravindra was the exception by posting a memorable century in the first Test match. Tim Southee is yet to find the best form of his series. Scott Kuggeleijn’s inclusion in the team has sparked debuts throughout the cricketing community, but the 32 year old was selected for the second game running. Matt Henry was the pick of the bowlers for the New Zealanders in the first game and Kiwi captain would depend on this brilliant bowler to deliver early breakthroughs.
New Zealand
- Tom Latham 2. Will Young 3. Kane Williamson 4. Rachin Ravindra 5. Daryl Mitchell 6. Tom Blundell (WK) 7. Glenn Phillps 8. Scott Kuggeleijn 9. Matt Henry 10. Tim Southee (Cap.) 11. Ben Sears
Australia
1. Usman Khawaja 2. Steve Smith 3. Marnus Labuschagne 4. Cameron Green 5. Travis Head 6. Mitchell Marsh 7. Alex Carey (WK) 8. Mitchell Starc 9. Pat Cummins (Cap.) 10. Nathan Lyon 11. Josh Hazlewood
Australian captain Patrick Cummins won the toss and sent the Kiwis to bat first. The Hagley Oval pitch in Christchurch usually offers a pacer friendly track. The greenish top would allow the pace bowlers to use the new ball to get some swing. The pitch also enables the bowlers to get enough bounce off the surface. However, it is tough to predict the nature of the pitch at Hagley Oval. In the last three years, the highest team total, highest successful run chase and lowest team total records have been broken at this venue.
The fast bowlers and the batters may receive assistance from this surface. The average first innings score is 320 at this ground. The teams that have fielded first have secured seven wins at this ground. So, the captain winning the toss would be tempted to bowl first under the favourable conditions.
The playing surface was assisting the pace bowlers by letting them generate bounce and movement. The carry to the wicketkeeper is also fine in terms of the pace. But on the third day, the pitch may help the batters as the balls would come to bat more easily. Pat Cummins would look to up the ante by deploying a world class pace attack against the Kiwi batters who have struggled throughout the series. The pitch did not alter much from the first day during which Josh Hazlewood shone with the ball.
Fixture
The historic Trans-Tasman rivalry between Australia and New Zealand is poised to reignite in a thrilling showdown as they gear up for the inaugural Test of the highly anticipated two-match series commencing on February 29th (Thursday), vying for the prestigious Chappell-Hadlee Trophy.
Australia is embarking on a momentous red-ball tour of their neighbouring arch-rivals for the first time since the memorable encounters of February 2016. Back then, Australia asserted their dominance emphatically, clinching a commanding 2-0 triumph over the Kiwis.
The Aussies undeniably hold the upper hand over the Blackcaps in the traditional red-ball format, boasting a stellar record with 35 victories out of the 61 Tests contested, while New Zealand has mustered only eight wins, with 18 matches culminating in a stalemate.
Armed with the aura of reigning champions of the World Test Championship, Australia strides into the series brimming with confidence following their recent resounding success in the T20I series, where they outclassed New Zealand with a clinical 3-0 whitewash. Nonetheless, New Zealand draws inspiration from their commendable performance against a makeshift South African squad in the recent two-match Test series.
Offering a sneak peek into the battlefield, the Hagley Oval in Christchurch unveils a pitch shrouded in a lush green cover for the impending contest. The verdant hue promises to favour the seamers from both camps, potentially posing a formidable challenge for the team tasked with setting the tone in the opening innings. Notably, the historic venue has witnessed outcomes in 11 out of the 12 Tests held within its precincts, with a remarkable 7 of those victories belonging to sides that opted to unleash their bowling arsenal first.
With the promise of moisture-laden conditions and the allure of fresh grass blades, the bowlers entrusted with embarking on this cricketing odyssey stand poised to exploit the early advantage offered by the Hagley Oval wicket, setting the stage for a compelling battle between bat and ball.
| Venue | The fourth day of the first Test match between Australia and New Zealand was played at The Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand. |
| Date | The second day started on Monday, March 11 2024, at 10:00 a.m. local time. |
Captaincy & Tactics
Alex Carey showcased exceptional resilience and skill under immense pressure to shatter New Zealand’s hopes of a remarkable victory as Australia successfully chased down a challenging target of 279 at Hagley Oval in a nail-biting encounter.
The thrilling second Test saw Australia stumble to 80 for 5 early on day four, with the wicket of Travis Head adding to their woes. However, Carey and Mitchell Marsh turned the tide with a crucial 140-run partnership for the sixth wicket, bringing Australia within striking distance of the target.
Debutant Ben Sears turned the match around with quick-fire dismissals of Marsh and Mitchell Starc, reviving New Zealand’s chances. Despite the sudden setbacks, Carey remained undeterred and played the role of a hero by guiding Australia to victory with an unbeaten 98.
The tense match escalated as Pat Cummins supported Carey with a composed knock, reminiscent of his pivotal contributions in past high-pressure situations. With Cummins hitting the winning boundary, the Australian team celebrated their hard-fought triumph on a gloomy day at Hagley Oval.
This victory marked a significant achievement for Australia, who have endured a demanding schedule of 22 Tests in the past 15 months. Their next major test will be against India in a five-Test series next summer, providing them with a well-deserved break from Test cricket.
On the other hand, New Zealand’s disappointment was palpable as they continued their struggle against Australia, having won only once in the last three decades. The loss was a bitter pill to swallow for the Kiwi team, whose next chance to face Australia in a Test series is not until 2026-27.
Despite a valiant fightback from New Zealand in the Test, Australia’s determined efforts, led by Carey’s stellar performance, proved too strong to overcome. The match showcased the resilience and character of both teams in a thrilling contest that will be remembered for years to come.
Batting Analysis
Stuart Broad’s infamous sledge to Alex Carey at Lord’s marked a pivotal moment that transformed perceptions of the Australian cricketer. Despite executing a legitimate stumping that was in accordance with the laws of the game, Carey faced severe backlash, including receiving death threats, and found himself under intense scrutiny.
However, Carey’s narrative took a positive turn with his exceptional display in the crucial Test match in Christchurch. This innings not only showcased his remarkable talent but also highlighted his mental fortitude and resilience in overcoming challenges.
Prior to the Christchurch Test, Carey had faced a dip in form, leading to doubts surrounding his performance. The scrutiny intensified due to Australia’s inconsistent batting displays, putting a spotlight on his recent struggles at the crease.
In a high-pressure situation with Australia reeling at 80 for 5 and still needing 199 runs for victory, Carey displayed exceptional composure and skill. His innings of 98 not out played a pivotal role in Australia’s successful chase, steering them to an extraordinary fourth-innings victory against New Zealand.
Facing a potent bowling attack in challenging conditions, Carey exhibited a newfound sense of control and focus. He made astute decisions, displayed solid technique, and exhibited a calm demeanor throughout his innings, anchoring Australia’s chase with authority.
Teaming up with the aggressive Mitchell Marsh, Carey formed a formidable partnership that kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace. Their century stand helped Australia cut down the required runs quickly, putting pressure on the New Zealand bowlers.
Despite a few nervy moments and the loss of key wickets, Carey remained composed and made crucial contributions with the bat. His calculated risks, especially against spin bowler Glenn Phillips, helped release pressure and paved the way for Australia’s victory.
Carey’s selfless approach, exemplified by his restraint in pursuing a century and allowing his captain to seal the win, underscored his team-first mentality and unwavering dedication to the collective success of the side.
The support and praise from teammates, including captain Pat Cummins, highlighted Carey’s invaluable contributions as a match-winner with both the bat and behind the stumps. His stellar performance in the away series further solidified his reputation as a pivotal player in the Australian cricket setup, carving out a special career trajectory for himself.
Bowling Analysis
In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Alex Carey delivered an impeccably timed, unbeaten innings of 98 runs to lead Australia to a remarkable three-wicket victory against New Zealand and secure a clean-sweep series win.
Prior to this final Test match, Carey, along with several members of Australia’s batting line-up, had been struggling to find form. Questions had surfaced regarding his mode of dismissals – falling to in-field catches – adding further pressure on his role as the team’s wicketkeeper.
However, showcasing near-flawless glovework and a match-winning knock during a critical juncture, Carey not only silenced his critics but also cemented his position in the team, especially with Australia’s next Test assignment not until the upcoming home summer against India.
Collaborating with Mitchell Marsh in a crucial 140-run partnership for the sixth wicket, Carey played a pivotal role in steering Australia towards their target of 279 runs. Despite a scare with two quick wickets falling to debutant Ben Sears, Carey’s resilience shone through as he later anchored an unbeaten 61-run stand with skipper Pat Cummins to guide Australia to victory.
New Zealand’s missed opportunities, including a dropped catch by Rachin Ravindra off Marsh early in the day, added to the dramatic narrative of the match. The tense exchanges, review dramas, and near-misses kept the game on a knife’s edge as the target came within reach for Australia.
Facing challenges posed by bowlers like Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips, Carey stood firm and composed, while Marsh’s aggressive strokes offered strong support. The partnership flourished as the target dwindled, leaving the home team reeling under the pressure of an impending defeat.
As debutant Ben Sears made a dramatic impact with two quick wickets, the game reached a fever pitch with the crowd on the edge of their seats. Sears’ near-hat-trick bid added to the electrifying atmosphere, but Carey and Cummins remained cool-headed and resilient, steering Australia towards a historic victory.
Amidst persistent rain delays and a fluctuating momentum, Carey’s exceptional innings not only showcased his batting prowess but also symbolized his resilience and determination to excel on the cricket field. The significance of his performance resonated even more considering his recent struggles and the doubts surrounding his place in the team.
Celebrating his highest Test score since his remarkable century against South Africa, Carey’s innings served as a testament to his character and commitment to the team’s success. With his family watching from the stands, Carey’s embrace with Cummins at the conclusion of the match encapsulated the spirit of teamwork and triumph.
As the sun broke through the clouds, signaling a new dawn for Australian cricket, Carey’s match-winning knock will be remembered as a defining moment in his career, solidifying his position as a match-winner and a vital asset to the Australian team.
Stat Attack
Australia capped off a dominant performance against New Zealand, securing a 2-0 series victory with a thrilling three-wicket win in the second Test at Christchurch. This win not only extends Australia’s dominance over New Zealand in their backyard but also sees them etch their names into the record books.
New Zealand’s 13-Year Home Fortress Crumbles
Prior to this series, New Zealand boasted an impressive unbeaten streak of 13 consecutive Test series at home. Their last series defeat came in March 2017 against South Africa. This dominant run included ten series wins and three draws in thirteen two-match Test series played on home soil. Australia, however, proved to be the team to break this stronghold, highlighting their current red-hot form.
Record-Breaking Lower-Order Batting Propels Australia to Victory
The cornerstone of Australia’s victory was a phenomenal batting display by their lower order. The sixth-wicket partnership between Alex Carey (98*) and Mitchell Marsh (80) amassed a staggering 140 runs, the third-highest partnership for the sixth wicket or lower in a successful fourth-innings chase in Test history.
This lower-order partnership wasn’t the only record broken. Australia’s total of 210 runs scored by batters at No.6 and lower during the fourth innings is the highest ever by any team in a successful chase. This surpasses the previous record of 190 runs set by Sri Lanka against Zimbabwe in 2017.
Carey’s Heroics and Cummins’ Finishing Touches
Alex Carey, the hero of the chase, played a magnificent innings. His unbeaten 98 is the second-highest score by a wicketkeeper in a successful fourth-innings chase, falling just short of Adam Gilchrist’s legendary 149* against Pakistan in 1999. Carey’s knock silenced his critics who had questioned his place in the team after a string of underwhelming performances earlier in the series.
Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, also played a crucial role in the chase. He remained unbeaten at the crease alongside Carey, guiding Australia towards victory with a well-timed boundary. Notably, this was the third time Cummins hit the winning runs in a successful chase of 250+ runs for Australia since 2008.
Australia’s Dominance Continues
This win marks Australia’s seventh consecutive Test victory against New Zealand in New Zealand. This ties them for the joint-second longest winning streak by a team against the home team in Test cricket.
These records and the series win further solidify Australia’s dominance over New Zealand and set the stage for an exciting upcoming home summer series against India.
Key Performances
Taking a stand when the situation demands has emerged as a central theme for the Australian Test team led by Pat Cummins, especially during a recent period where their batting lineup has been less than optimal, as described by the captain himself.
In a challenging scenario at Hagley Oval, facing a steep chase of 279 runs with the team struggling at 4-34 and then 5-80, Australia appeared unlikely to maintain their unbeaten streak against New Zealand spanning 13 years. The extraordinary efforts of Matt Henry, who claimed nine wickets in the match, and the impressive debutant Ben Sears, with figures of 4-90 in the innings, posed a formidable challenge for the tourists.
However, it was in this critical moment that Alex Carey not only rose to the occasion but excelled on the final day of the match. His exceptional unbeaten knock of 98 showcased a blend of brilliance and strategic acumen, earning him praise from Cummins, teammates, and national selectors. This innings marked a significant redemption for Carey, characterized by astute decision-making and precise stroke-play, establishing his place firmly in the team ahead of the crucial series against India next summer.
Reflecting on his performance, Carey attributed his success to sticking to a solid game plan and adapting to the conditions and the bowlers, which instilled a sense of confidence within the team. The partnership between Carey and Mitch Marsh was pivotal, with the latter’s fearless approach complementing his impactful innings of 80 runs, providing a solid foundation for Australia’s successful run chase.
The victorious partnership between Cummins and Carey emphasized the team’s resilience and ability to triumph even in situations where their best cricket may not have been on display. Cummins highlighted the team’s wealth of experience as a vital asset in navigating these crucial moments, underscoring the value of drawing upon their collective knowledge to secure wins.
The match was not devoid of tense moments, as Marsh survived an early scare, and Carey benefited from a review that overturned an LBW decision against him. Together, they orchestrated a composed and proactive approach towards the target, steadily closing in on the required runs with purpose and determination.
In the closing stages of the chase, Carey’s composure and tactical shot selection, coupled with Cummins’ calculated play, propelled Australia towards victory, culminating in a memorable win on foreign soil. The celebrations that followed not only signified a series triumph but also marked a satisfying conclusion to a demanding period of relentless cricket for the team.
Turning Point
Wicketkeeper Alex Carey showcased exceptional resilience and skill as he carried his bat through to an unbeaten 98 runs, forming a crucial 140-run partnership with Mitch Marsh. This partnership proved instrumental in guiding Australia to a remarkable three-wicket victory over New Zealand, sealing a 2-0 series sweep for the visitors. Throughout the closely contested match, both teams experienced shifts in momentum, but it was Marsh’s composed knock of 80 and Carey’s steady performance that ultimately steered Australia towards success.
The challenging chase of 281-7 set by Australia in the fourth innings represented the 14th highest successful run chase in Test cricket history, underscoring the significance of their achievement. On the opposing side, New Zealand came agonizingly close to securing their first Test victory over Australia on home soil in 31 years, with their last win in Australia dating back 13 years to Hobart.
The pivotal moment arrived when Marsh departed, leaving Australia needing 59 runs with four wickets in hand. Subsequent quick dismissals, including Mitchell Starc falling on the next delivery, momentarily tilted the balance in favor of New Zealand. However, Carey’s resolute presence and a crucial unbeaten stand of 61 runs with skipper Pat Cummins turned the tide back in Australia’s favor. Cummins, in a fitting conclusion, struck a boundary through cover to seal the victory, finishing unbeaten on 32 runs.
As the match approached its climax, Carey found himself on strike with three runs required and a chance to reach a century, which would have been a significant milestone as the first century of the match. Despite being denied the opportunity to achieve the feat, Carey expressed contentment with his contribution, emphasizing the team’s ability to navigate through challenging situations and emerge victorious.
The commencement of the fourth day, delayed by a heavy shower, saw Australia embarking on their pursuit of 202 runs with six wickets in hand, while New Zealand eyed the crucial wickets needed for a win. The tense atmosphere that enveloped the match highlighted the enduring allure of Test cricket, showcasing the captivating drama and intricacies of the five-day format.
Moreover, the resilient display by Marsh and Carey underlined their ability to withstand pressure and deliver when it mattered most, defying New Zealand’s attempts to wrest control of the game. The duo’s determined approach, coupled with aggressive stroke-play and effective partnerships, proved instrumental in shaping Australia’s remarkable run chase and eventual triumph.
Match Result
The Australians won the second match by 3 wickets. A win in this thrilling encounter ensures the Australians have secured the Chappell-Hadlee trophy with a clean sweep of 2-0.
Player of the Match
Alex Carey was awarded the man of the match in this second Test. The South Australian wicketkeeper batsman played a match winning knock of 98 in the second innings. Moreover, his ten catches equalled the record for the highest number of catches by an Australian wicketkeeper in a Test match.
Player of the Series
Despite losing both Tests, Kiwi pacer Matt Henry won the player of the series award. The 32 year old fast bowler claimed a total of 17 scalps in this Test series including a seven wicket haul in the first innings of this match. The local boy showcased his full range of deliveries coupled with swing bowling.
Brief Scorecard
| New Zealand First Innings: 162/10 (45.2 overs) | Australia First Innings: 256/10 (68 overs) | New Zealand Second Innings: 372 (108.2 overs) | Australia Second Innings: 281/7 (24 overs) |
| Tom Latham 38 (69) | Marnus Labuschagne 90 (147) | Rachin Ravindra 82 (153) | Alex Carey 98 (123) |
| Matt Henry 29 (28) | Mitchell Starc 28 (54) | Tom Latham 73 (168) | Mitchell Marsh 80 (102) |
| Josh Hazlewood 5/31 (13.2 overs) | Matt Henry 7/67 (23 overs) | Pat Cummins 4/62 (24 overs) | Ben Sears 4/90(17 overs) |
| Mitchell Starc 3/59 (12 overs) | Glenn Phillps 1/14 ( 5 overs) | Nathan Lyon 3/49 (16.2 overs) | Matt Henry 2/94 (19 overs) |
Day Highlights
Day Wrap-Up
It was another heartbreak for the Kiwis who just came short against a resilient Australian side. The visitors showed their fighting power when their backs were against the wall. Alex Carey finally hit form with a classical Test knock of 98 to guide Australia home in Christchurch. Ben Sears grabbed four wickets in an inspiring spell of pace bowling. The teams will not play international cricket until the T20 World Cup in June.
