Another batting debacle on day one has left New Zealand reeling just after the first two sessions in the second Test against Australia. After being sent out to bat at Hagley Oval, the New Zealander batters failed to post decent scores as their innings was wrapped up before reaching 200. Josh Hazlewood was brilliant with the ball once again with another Test fifer to his name. Marnus Labuschagne’s steady hand with the bat enabled the visitors to end the day within touching distance of New Zealand’s first innings score.
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.
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 neighboring 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 favor 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 second 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 Friday, March 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. local time. |
Captaincy & Tactics
The second Test between Australia and New Zealand swung dramatically on day two, with both sides experiencing contrasting fortunes with the bat. Australia’s potent pace attack dismantled the Black Caps for just 162, before their own top order wobbled against a lively pitch. Marnus Labuschagne’s timely 45* in his 50th Test match has offered Australia a glimmer of hope for a first innings lead.
New Zealand, after winning the toss and electing to bat, initially looked comfortable on a seemingly benign Hagley Oval surface. However, the tide turned shortly before lunch as Josh Hazlewood found his rhythm. His impeccable seven-over spell yielded a staggering 4-14, restricting the Black Caps’ scoring and triggering a middle-order collapse. Openers Will Young and Tom Latham fell cheaply, while the dismissal of in-form batsman Rachin Ravindra continued his frustrating trend of edging deliveries outside off stump.
Hazlewood’s brilliance continued after the break. He removed the dangerous Daryl Mitchell and, in a crucial blow, trapped skipper Kane Williamson lbw. Williamson’s review proved futile, leaving New Zealand reeling at 84-5. The sole hope rested on wicket-keeper Tom Blundell and all-rounder Glenn Phillips, who had rescued them in a similar situation at Wellington. However, Phillips became Mitchell Starc’s 356th Test wicket, propelling the left-arm pacer past Dennis Lillee into fourth place on Australia’s all-time wicket-takers list.
The dismissal of Blundell and Scott Kuggeleijn left New Zealand staring at a potentially embarrassing total. However, a defiant ninth-wicket stand between Tim Southee and Matt Henry breathed life back into their innings. Henry, already New Zealand’s leading run-scorer and bowler in the series, showcased his all-around ability with a belligerent knock. Their 55-run partnership ensured New Zealand avoided their lowest total against Australia since 2015.
Australia, in response, also faced early setbacks. They lost their top order cheaply, with Steve Smith falling victim to a debutant’s brilliance. Will Sears, bowling in his first Test, dismissed the former Player of the Year with a delivery that nipped back and clipped the off-stump. Marnus Labuschagne, celebrating his 50th Test, provided much-needed stability. His unbeaten 45* alongside Nathan Lyon (1*) ensured Australia ended the day 4-124, still trailing by 38 runs.
With a lively pitch offering assistance to both seam and swing bowling, the outcome of the Test remains uncertain. Australia will look to build on Labuschagne’s knock and establish a first innings lead. New Zealand, on the other hand, will need their bowlers to replicate their day one performance and restrict the visitors’ scoring.
Batting Analysis
In a display of bowling prowess, Josh Hazlewood orchestrated a masterclass performance, claiming an impressive 5-31 to propel Australia into a commanding position on the first day of the second Test match at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.
The capacity crowd of 8,000 witnessed a remarkable bowling spectacle as Hazlewood, with his precision and skill, dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup, restricting them to a mere 162 runs in just 45.2 overs. The disappointed home fans watched as their team struggled against the relentless Australian bowling attack led by Hazlewood.
Although New Zealand put up a valiant effort with the ball, managing to reduce Australia to 124-4, the tourists find themselves trailing by only 38 runs at stumps. Marnus Labuschagne remained unbeaten on a resilient 45, steering Australia towards a strong position, with nightwatchman Nathan Lyon contributing 1 run.
After winning the toss and opting to put New Zealand in to bat, Pat Cummins and the Australian team might have initially been frustrated by the lack of early breakthroughs. However, their fortunes changed swiftly as Hazlewood’s brilliance came to the fore, triggering a collapse in the New Zealand batting order.
The pivotal moments of the day included Hazlewood’s dismissal of key batsmen like Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Rachin Ravindra, supported by Alex Carey’s exceptional wicketkeeping with five catches to his name. Williamson, in his 100th Test match, fell victim to Hazlewood’s lethal bowling, unable to counter the seaming delivery that jagged back and trapped him plumb in front.
Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc played a crucial role in the proceedings, claiming significant wickets to further dent New Zealand’s hopes. Starc’s dismissal of Glenn Phillips and Scott Kuggeleijn showcased his class as he moved past the legendary Dennis Lillee in Australia’s list of all-time Test wicket-takers. Nathan Lyon did not influence the game much after his heroics in the previous Test match.
As Australia began their reply, New Zealand’s bowling attack posed a formidable challenge, with Tim Southee, Matt Henry, and debutant Ben Sears putting the visitors under pressure. Despite early setbacks, Labuschagne and Cameron Green’s partnership provided stability before Green’s dismissal by a fired-up Henry.
Looking ahead, both teams aim to capitalize on key moments in the upcoming sessions, realizing the importance of taking wickets and building partnerships to gain the upper hand in this closely contested Test match. The stage is set for a compelling battle between bat and ball as the match unfolds over the coming days.
In his milestone 50th Test match, Marnus Labuschagne’s timely return to form has bolstered Australia’s chances of securing a first-innings lead in the challenging second Test encounter against New Zealand. Despite a day dominated by bowlers, Labuschagne showcased resilience, finishing unbeaten on 45 as Australia closed at 4-124, with Nathan Lyon holding steady as the nightwatchman.
Labuschagne’s pivotal innings, the highest score of the day, came under intense pressure as Australia’s pace bowlers, led by the outstanding Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, stamped their authority on the game. Hazlewood’s impressive 5-31, including his 12th five-wicket haul in 70 Test appearances, complemented Starc’s 3-59, elevating Starc to the fourth-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Tests. Captain Pat Cummins’ decision to bowl first after winning the toss was justified by the bowlers’ impactful performances.
The pitch at Hagley Oval initially showed no significant assistance to bowlers in the early stages of the game, but it transformed suddenly just before lunch, leading to a flurry of wickets as both teams faced challenging batting conditions. Despite New Zealand’s swift collapse and Australia’s top-order stumbling, Labuschagne’s steadiness stood out as he guided Australia towards a potential lead.
Matt Henry’s fiery bowling kept New Zealand in contention, claiming key wickets including Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green. Debutant Will Sears made a memorable start to his Test career by dismissing the experienced Steve Smith, demonstrating his potential impact in the game.
Bowling Analysis
Mitchell Starc achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Dennis Lillee’s renowned record with his 356th Test wicket, while Josh Hazlewood shone brightly with a standout performance during the inaugural day of the second Test at Hagley Oval. The day witnessed a thrilling encounter as Matt Henry spearheaded a valiant fightback for New Zealand, ultimately leaving Australia at 124 for 4 at stumps, trailing by 38 runs.
New Zealand’s innings tumbled to a disappointing low total, with Henry making a mark by dismissing Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, and Travis Head. Despite the late resurgence from New Zealand, Marnus Labuschagne’s resilient knock of 45 not out, in his 50th Test, ensured Australia’s commanding position as they aim to secure a 2-0 series victory following their dominant performance in Wellington. In the closing moments of the day, Nathan Lyon held his ground as the nightwatchman amidst the spirited play from both sides.
Josh Hazlewood’s precise bowling claimed five crucial wickets, while Henry’s crafty swing and strategic tactics posed challenges for the Australian batsmen. Debutant Ben Sears made an impactful start by dismissing Steven Smith early in his Test career, setting the tone for an intense battle between the two competitive teams.
Pat Cummins’ decision to bowl first reaped rewards on a green-tinged pitch offering seam movement, leading to New Zealand’s downfall as they were bundled out for 162 by tea. The early losses for New Zealand, including the dismissal of Tom Latham and Will Young, dented their hopes of a strong start after an initial promising partnership at the crease.
The match unfolded with gripping moments as Australia’s bowlers dominated the proceedings, asserting control over the game despite some resistance from the New Zealand batsmen. The challenging conditions at Hagley Oval tested the skills of both teams, with Hazlewood and Starc leading the charge for Australia while Henry showcased his prowess for New Zealand amidst a formidable Australian lineup.
As the day concluded with Australia holding the upper hand, the stage is set for an enthralling continuation of the Test match, with both teams eager to make their mark and secure a crucial victory in the series.
Fielding Performance
One of the major differences between the two sides has been in the fielding department. The Australian fielding performance was immaculate in the first Test match, whereas the Kiwis have come up short in this department. On the first day of the second Test match, The Australians continued to impress with their fielding. They took all of their chances except two of the chances that fell to the usual brilliant Cameron Green and Travis Head. Alex Carey was the star of the show for the Australians by taking five catches in the innings. Among them, there were two magnificent catches to send Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips back to the pavilion. Apart from his destruction with the ball, Josh Hazlewood took a fine catch to put an end to Tim Southee’s rearguard action. Usman Khawaja took a sharp catch at first slip to dismiss Rachin Ravindra early in the game. But the best catch of the day belonged to the mercurial all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. The ball flew towards him at a fast pace where he reacted late but sharply to complete a stunning catch that dismissed Will Young.
Key Performances
Josh Hazlewood showcased his mastery with the ball, claiming a sensational 5-31 as Australia dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup for a mere 162 runs on the opening day of the second cricket Test. This outstanding bowling performance overshadowed the monumental 100th Test appearances of cricketing stalwarts Kane Williamson and Tim Southee.
In a dramatic collapse, Kane Williamson could only muster 17 runs, while Tom Latham’s resilient 38 emerged as the highest individual score for New Zealand. Southee contributed 26 runs, forming a gritty 55-run partnership for the ninth wicket with Matt Henry, who scored 29 runs, providing some crucial resistance amidst the flurry of wickets falling.
As the day progressed, Australia faced their own challenges, losing early wickets to the impressive New Zealand bowling attack. At 32-2, debutant Ben Sears made an impact by dismissing Steve Smith for 11 runs, and Usman Khawaja fell victim to the bowling prowess of Matt Henry. However, Marnus Labuschagne’s determined knock of 45 not out, supported by opener Cameron Green’s 25 runs, helped Australia stabilize their innings.
Matt Henry’s stellar bowling effort saw him finish the day with impressive figures of 3-39, putting pressure on the Australian batting lineup. Despite the setbacks, Labuschagne’s resilience and fighting spirit ensured Australia ended the day in a commanding position.
Hazlewood’s impeccable line and length, coupled with his ability to generate movement off the pitch, proved too much for the New Zealand batsmen. His fifer included key wickets of Williamson, Latham, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Henry, culminating in New Zealand’s quick collapse within 46 overs.
In response to Australia’s dominant bowling display, Mitchell Starc also played a crucial role by claiming vital wickets, surpassing Dennis Lillee’s career tally of 356 Test wickets. The Australian bowlers’ collective effort, supported by astute fielding, kept the pressure on the New Zealand team throughout the day.
Australia captain Pat Cummins’ decision to bowl first on a greenish pitch paid dividends, with early success for the seamers despite a steady start by the New Zealand openers. Hazlewood’s precision and skillful execution on the challenging pitch highlighted Australia’s disciplined approach, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Turning Point
The turning point of the day came at the final ball of the 32 over of the New Zealand innings. The New Zealanders were already in trouble with Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc ripping through their top order. They lost four wickets at a score of 74. Kane Willaimson was at the crease, playing his 100th Test match. The New Zealand legend had a first Test match but looked to be at ease in this innings.
Williamson was playing at a score of 17 from 36 balls. Josh Hazlewood delivered a dream ball to breach through the defences of Williamson. The ball pitched full on middle and got past Willamson’s bat with a slightly inward shape. Willamson played down the wrong line and was struck in the pad. There was no doubt in the umpire’s mind that it was a clear out. However, Williamson decided to take the review to no avail. The New Zealanders could not amass a good total after this blow and their innings ended well before reaching the 200 mark.
Day Result
Australians are only 38 runs behind the Kiwi first innings total after day one. The visitors have six wickets in hand with Marnus Labuschagne batting at the score of 45.
Brief Scorecard
| New Zealand First Innings: 162/10 (45.2 overs) | Australia First Innings: 124/4 (36 overs) |
| Tom Latham 38 (69) | Marnus Labuschagne 45 (80) |
| Matt Henry 29 (28) | Cameron Green 45 (80) |
| Josh Hazlewood 5/31 (13.2 overs) | Matt Henry 3/39 (13 overs) |
| Mitchell Starc 3/59 (12 overs) | Ben Sears 1/38 (11 overs) |
Day Highlights
Day Wrap-Up
Josh Hazlewood bowled magnificently to secure the 12th fifer of his Test career as the New Zealand batting crumbled in the first two sessions. The New Zealand batters played wayward shots to get themselves out cheaply on a tricky surface. In reply, the Australians batted well to get themselves close to the first innings score by the hosts. They would look to get a big score in the first innings in a quest of clean sweeping their neighbours clean in the Test series as well. Matt Henry would be a key figure for the New Zealanders if they want to get something out of this Test match.
