By Australia Seizes Control in Wellington Test Despite Early Second Innings Wobble
Australia took a commanding position in the opening Test in Wellington with a strong all-round performance on the second day. Cameron Green’s unbeaten 174* propelled Australia to a substantial first innings total on a challenging pitch, supported by a vital last-wicket stand with Josh Hazlewood. Australia’s pace attack then capitalized on the favorable conditions, reducing New Zealand to 29/5 before Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips staged a partial recovery.
Nathan Lyon’s four-wicket haul helped Australia secure a 204-run first innings lead, but they chose not to enforce the follow-on. New Zealand struck early in Australia’s second innings, dismissing Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply. Usman Khawaja and nightwatchman Nathan Lyon steadied the ship to see Australia through to the end of the day’s play.
Despite the early setbacks in their second innings, Australia remains in a strong position with a lead of 217 runs. New Zealand, however, will be looking to build on their late fightback to challenge Australia’s dominance in the remainder of the Test.
Brief Scores: Australia 383 (Cameron Green 174*; Matt Henry 5-70) & 13/2 (Tim Southee 2-5) & 13/2 (Tim Southee 2-5) lead New Zealand 179 (Glenn Phillips 71; Nathan Lyon 4-43) by 217 runs
