On Day 2 of the second Test match between Australia and New Zealand in Christchurch, Australia responded emphatically to New Zealand’s total of 162 runs by posting a commanding 256 runs in their first innings. The visitors displayed resilience and determination, particularly highlighted by Marnus Labuschagne’s gritty knock of 90 runs, anchoring the innings with skill and determination.
Marnus Labuschagne’s innings was unfortunately cut short just before Lunch by a spectacular one-handed diving catch from Glenn Phillips in the gully, denying him a well-deserved century. Despite Labuschagne’s valiant effort, Australia faced struggles with their batting lineup, with Mitchell Starc being the next best contributor with 28 runs for the ninth wicket.
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Matt Henry proved to be a formidable force for New Zealand, showcasing his skill with figures of 7-67, marking only the second time in his Test career that he has taken seven wickets in an innings.
SUPERMAN! 🦸 What a catch from Glenn Phillips! Australia are 221/8 at lunch on Day 2 🏏@BLACKCAPS v Australia: 2nd Test | LIVE on DUKE and TVNZ+ pic.twitter.com/Swx84jNFZb
— TVNZ+ (@TVNZ) March 9, 2024
In the latter stages of their innings, Pat Cummins displayed some aggressive batting, scoring 23 runs off just 22 balls, including smashing Ben Sears for three fours and a six. However, Australia ultimately finished their innings with a lead of 94 runs, as Henry returned to dismiss Starc and Cummins.
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With a significant lead in hand, Australia will be aiming for a series-clinching victory after winning the first Test by 172 runs. Meanwhile, New Zealand will be looking to mount a strong batting display in their second innings to level the series. The first Test showcased Australia’s strengths, including Cameron Green’s impressive 174* and Henry’s exceptional eight-wicket haul, providing them with confidence heading into the remainder of the series.
New Zealand (Playing XI): Tom Latham, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Scott Kuggeleijn, Matt Henry, Tim Southee (c), Ben Sears
Australia (Playing XI): Steven Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
