In the second Test between England and New Zealand at Wellington, Daryl Mitchell delivered a moment of brilliance that swung the early momentum in favor of the hosts. Mitchell’s sensational one-handed catch dismissed England’s Joe Root, putting the visitors in a precarious position after a strong start to the series with an eight-wicket win in Christchurch.
New Zealand won the toss and opted to field on a green-tinged Wellington pitch. The early overs saw England’s openers struggle against the new ball, and by the time Joe Root came to the crease, the visitors were looking to recover. Root, who has endured inconsistent form since his double-century against Pakistan, appeared determined to steady the innings.
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However, his stay at the crease was cut short in dramatic fashion. Facing Nathan Smith in the 11th over, Root edged a back-of-a-length delivery that seemed destined to race between the slips. Positioned at first slip, Daryl Mitchell reacted with lightning speed, diving full stretch to his right and snatching the ball with one hand.
What a catch this was from Daryl Mitchell 👏
New Zealand with another wicket over England 📈
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It was a stunning piece of fielding, and Root was sent back for just three runs, leaving England reeling at 26/3. Despite the early setbacks, England fought back through a 174-run stand between Harry Brook and Ollie Pope. Brook dazzled with a blistering 123 off 115 balls, peppering the boundary with 11 fours and five sixes, while Pope contributed a steady 66.
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England eventually posted 280 before being bowled out. New Zealand’s response was shaky, with England’s bowlers reducing them to 86/5 by the end of Day 1. Trailing by 194 runs, the Kiwis face an uphill battle as England appears poised to build on their strong position in this gripping Test match.
