From the Highlights Aus vs NZ first test, the Aussies found themselves in a commanding position after dismissing New Zealand for 179 in the opening Test on the second day of Friday’s play.
Cameron Green’s outstanding unbeaten knock of 174 propelled Australia to a total of 383 in their first innings.
Despite Glenn Phillips’ aggressive 71, which saved New Zealand from complete collapse in front of a packed crowd at Wellington’s Basin Reserve, the Black Caps struggled to post a competitive total.
Opting not to enforce the follow-on, Australia continued to assert dominance, although skipper Tim Southee managed to dismiss Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne without causing significant damage to the scoreboard.
However, Australia stumbled to 13-2 in their second innings with a lead of 217 runs, as nightwatchman Nathan Lyon and Usman Khawaja remained unbeaten at the close of play.
As New Zealand aimed for only their second victory over Australia in 24 Tests this century, they sought to quickly wrap up Australia’s innings. Yet, Green and Josh Hazlewood thwarted their efforts with a resilient partnership.
All-rounder Green, who had reached his century the previous day, continued his attacking approach, smashing 23 fours and five sixes in his marathon 275-ball innings.
Hazlewood provided valuable support, contributing 22 runs off 62 balls as they combined for a partnership of 116 runs, frustrating the New Zealand bowlers.
Despite their efforts, seamer Matt Henry managed to dismiss Hazlewood, claiming his second Test five-wicket haul with figures of 5-70.
In their reply, New Zealand faltered early, losing three wickets with just 12 runs on the board. Tom Latham and Kane Williamson fell quickly, and Rachin Ravindra followed suit, leaving the hosts in a precarious position.
Although Glenn Phillips and Tom Blundell staged a brief recovery with a partnership of 84 runs, Nathan Lyon halted their progress by dismissing Blundell for 33.
Lyon struck again soon after, removing Scott Kuggeleijn to leave New Zealand reeling at 113-7.
Hazlewood continued to trouble the New Zealand batsmen, eventually dismissing Phillips, while Lyon ended Henry’s stubborn innings on 42 to wrap up the innings.
The second and final Test between Australia and New Zealand in Christchurch is scheduled to commence on March 8.
