Christchurch: A sublime 93 from Kane Williamson helped New Zealand reach 319/8 at stumps on Day 1 of the opening Test against England, despite a disciplined bowling effort from the visitors here on Thursday.
Williamson, who faced 197 balls and struck 10 boundaries, was the backbone of the hosts’ innings, combining fluent drives with precise cuts.
However, his departure caught at backward point off Gus Atkinson marked a pivotal moment in the day, as New Zealand lost momentum and failed to capitalise on solid starts. This was Williamson’s fifth dismissal in the 90s, denying him a 33rd Test century.
The late resistance from Glenn Phillips, who remained unbeaten on 41, along with Tim Southee’s brief cameo of 10 off 19 balls, ensured New Zealand stayed competitive despite England's consistent pressure.
England's leg-spinner, Bashir, made an immediate impact, claiming 4/69. His sharp turn and guile caused problems for the New Zealand batsmen, dismissing key players such as Rachin Ravindra (34), Matt Henry (18), Nathan Smith (3) and Tom Blundell (17). Bashir's dismissal of Ravindra, off a full toss, was particularly significant, halting New Zealand’s progress in the afternoon session.
England's pacers also played a key role, with Brydon Carse’s relentless short-ball strategy proving successful as he removed Daryl Mitchell (19) with a sharp bouncer. Atkinson and the rest of the pace quartet maintained pressure throughout the day, keeping the hosts from building significant partnerships.
The day was not without drama. Ben Stokes dropped Phillips on 0, a costly mistake that allowed the Kiwi batsman to dig in. England also burned two reviews, including a close caught-behind appeal against Phillips, highlighting their frustration in the evening session.
New Zealand started the day cautiously, losing Devon Conway early for just 2 to a sharp return catch from Atkinson.
However, Williamson and Tom Latham steadied the innings, taking the score to 104/2 by lunch. Williamson’s composed knock, alongside Ravindra’s 34, helped the hosts reach 193/3 at tea. After the break, England fought back, with Bashir and Atkinson dismissing the set batsmen, shifting the momentum in their favour.
As the evening wore on, Phillips anchored the innings, ensuring New Zealand reached 319/8 at stumps, with support from Henry and Southee. The hosts will look to add vital runs from their lower order, while England will aim to wrap up the innings quickly and exploit batting-friendly conditions expected on Day 2.
