Shoaib Bashir led England’s attack with four wickets on a competitive opening day of the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
Opting to bowl first on a green pitch, England had to contend with Kane Williamson’s masterful 93, which anchored the Black Caps’ innings of 319-8.
Williamson built key partnerships with Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, and Daryl Mitchell, but uncharacteristic loose strokes cost New Zealand wickets at crucial moments, including Williamson’s dismissal to a short ball from Gus Atkinson. Bashir capitalized late in the day, removing Tom Blundell, Nathan Smith, and Matt Henry, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 41.
England’s day was a mix of brilliance and inconsistency. Their fielding lapses, including dropped catches and missed reviews, were counterbalanced by Bashir’s resurgence after a tough Pakistan tour. Supported by Atkinson and Brydon Carse, who chipped in with early breakthroughs, Bashir’s off-spin proved pivotal on a slow pitch that offered little assistance to pacers. Despite moments of sloppiness, England hung in, using smart tactics to keep the hosts in check.
With Phillips still at the crease, the pitch expected to ease for batters, and New Zealand aiming to capitalise, the Test remains finely poised heading into day two.
Stumps
New Zealand vs England, 1st Test. England tour of New Zealand
- NZ 319/8 (83 ov)
- Glenn Phillips* 41(58)
- Tim Southee 10(19)
- Gus Atkinson 2/61 (18 ov)
- Day 1 – England chose to field.
Click here to view more @espncricinfo.
