New Zealand will begin Day 2 of the second Test at The Oval in a strong position on 291/7, with Glenn Phillips and Kyle Jamieson tasked with extending the innings against an inexperienced England attack and pushing the total beyond the 350-run mark.
Day 2 contest
Heading into Day 2, the focus will be on the unbeaten Glenn Phillips (49*), who is one run away from a half-century, and Kyle Jamieson (6*). If the pair can negotiate the opening session and frustrate England's bowlers, New Zealand will fancy their chances of posting a first-innings total in excess of 350. England, meanwhile, are fielding a significantly reshaped side following the suspensions of regular captain Ben Stokes and pace spearhead Gus Atkinson. The hosts handed debuts to three players, including seamer Sonny Baker, who impressed with figures of 2/63 on the opening day, and wicketkeeper James Rew.
Bethell's magic
However, England found a way back into the contest through an unlikely source. Part-time spinner Jacob Bethell produced a crucial spell late in the day, claiming 2 wickets for just 8 runs in five overs to trigger a mini-collapse and prevent New Zealand from taking complete control.
A solid start from New Zealand
After interim captain Joe Root elected to bowl first, a delayed start due to a wet outfield did little to disrupt New Zealand's batting rhythm. The visitors were built around valuable contributions from Tom Blundell (51), Daryl Mitchell (44) and Rachin Ravindra (33), all of whom helped lay a solid foundation.
Playing XIs for second test at The Oval, London
England: Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root (c), Harry Brook, James Rew (wk), Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Matthew Fisher, Sonny Baker
New Zealand: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, William ORourke
