New Delhi. New Zealand made a strong comeback in the first Test against hosts England at Lord’s on the basis of an unbroken 180-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell after a scintillating performance from the fast bowlers. On the second day, England’s first innings was reduced to just 141 runs. At the end of the day’s play, New Zealand scored 236 for four in the second innings to take a 227-run lead. At that time Mitchell was playing 97 with the help of 11 fours and Blundell scoring 90 runs with the help of 12 fours.
On the second day, England led their first innings at 116 for seven, but lost the remaining three wickets for 25 runs. Jack Crowley scored the highest 43 runs for England. For New Zealand, Tim Southee took four wickets for 55 runs, while Trent Boult took three wickets for 21 runs. However, the Kiwi bowlers could not stop England from taking a psychological lead of nine runs in the first innings.
New Zealand, who were bundled out for 132 in the first innings, lost four wickets for 56 runs in the second innings. From here Mitchell and Blundell took charge and kept the England bowlers away from success. Matthew Potts, playing his Test debut for England, took two wickets, while veteran James Anderson and Stuart Broad took one wicket each.
Parkinson instead of Leach:
England spinner Jack Leach fell down while fielding on the first day, injuring his head. After that he was taken off the field. Due to concussion, he could not re-enter the match. After the first day’s play, England confirmed Matt Parkinson was included in the squad as a replacement for Leach.
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