New Zealand in deep trouble in Lord’s Test as England savor victory

New Zealand face an uphill battle for survival in the first Test at Lord’s after England tightened their grip on the contest on day two, reducing the visitors to 36 for 3 in their chase of 254.

On a pitch that still offers plenty of help to the bowlers, England’s bowlers struck early and often, leaving the Black Caps needing another 218 runs for just seven wickets. Kane Williamson’s dismissal on 18 dealt a particularly devastating blow to New Zealand’s hopes.

England vs. New Zealand 1st Test: Highlights of Day 2

England’s commanding position was built up earlier in the day Ollie Robinson, who marked his Test comeback in style. The seamer returned to the side after a two-year absence and completed his fourth five-wicket haul as New Zealand were bowled out for just 113 in reply to England’s first innings 140.

Robinson, who had already sparked England’s revival with three wickets in four balls on the opening day, gave the hosts a decisive lead in the first 27 innings.

There was some resistance from Kyle Jamieson, who backed up his five-wicket haul in England’s first innings with a spirited unbeaten 38. The all-rounder hit three towering sixes and briefly frustrated England after Josh Tongue removed Glenn Phillips (34) and Nathan Smith (15).

NATHAN SMITH SEPTEMBER BUT IN COMMAND OF ENGLAND

However, New Zealand’s bowling effort in the second innings was undermined by costly lapses in the field. Ben Duckett was given a reprieve when Rachin Ravindra bowled a chance and the opener made 33. Debutant Emilio Gay continued to impress and put together a confident 57 to anchor England’s innings.

The missed opportunities continued as Jacob Bethell was dropped and eventually departed for 14. Although New Zealand staged a mini-collapse, dismissing Harry Brook and Ben Stokes for ducks and trapping Joe Root lbw for eight, England still managed to stretch their lead. Nathan Smith was the pick of the bowlers and finished with amazing figures of 17-4-70-6.

England were eventually dismissed for 226, but the target of 254 quickly looked formidable as New Zealand’s top order faltered. With Williamson gone and the pitch continuing to offer uneven bounce and movement, England head into day three firmly in the driver’s seat.

The visitors now need something special to turn the match around, while England are already feeling the win in the landmark 150th Test at the Home of Cricket.

– The end

Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

June 6, 2026 01:39 IST