Harry Brook again displayed brilliance with a scintillating century as England somehow managed to pull themselves out of a precarious position on day one of the second Test against New Zealand at Basin Reserve. England, reeling at 43 for 4 after Matt Henry’s fierce opening spell, found stability in Brook’s partnership with Ollie Pope, who contributed a steady half-century.
It was a Brook’s 100 that arrived off just 91 deliveries against Test cricket. His innings carried with them 11 boundaries as well as five sixes and reflected his characteristic aggressive stance, even on a very seamer-friendly pitch, during which he was frequently getting hit outside the edge, to no effect.
Pope, batting at No. 6, complimented Brook with his composed 50. He was resilient against a challenging New Zealand pace attack that had earlier dismantled England’s top order. Pope was eventually to fall to the extra bounce of Will O’Rourke, while Brook went run out in an unfortunate mix-up with Chris Woakes.
New Zealand’s bowlers were dominant during the morning session. Henry spearheaded the attack as his opening spell brought two wickets within four maidens, where Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett were the victims. Jacob Bethell and Joe Root fell cheaply, putting England on the back foot early.
Brook and Pope turned things around in a hurry by adding 174 runs at a fast clip. Brook’s aggressive batting was the highlight of the innings-the cracking six off Nathan Smith and classy drive over extra cover. Pope’s solidity provided the base from which England rebuilt from the collapse.
This brought England to 222 for 6, but New Zealand, yet again, struck before tea to end the partnership. Though England recovered up to some extent, still, they are still under pressure since New Zealand has kept control over the game on a pitch favorable for bowling.
The day also witnessed Brook’s incredible form and established his significance in the English batting lineup since they are still in their series campaign.
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