The New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Philips has scored a magnificent test century off just 133 balls against England in the 2nd test match. This is also his maiden test century and it was a much-needed one for the Kiwis as they were struggling to get going. Glenn Philips walked out to bat at number 7 and New Zealand were just 188 at that stage of the game. He survived the tough phases of the game with resilience and his temperament against Jofra Archer was commendable. Philips scored 18 boundaries in his innings and it helped New Zealand reach a total of 391 in the first innings of the game.

The Kiwi batting unit will come under much scrutiny as their top-order wasn’t able to contribute much to the scoreboard. The absence of Kane Williamson must have left a huge void in their batting unit but it is important they find a way to fill that void. At a certain point in the innings, New Zealand were 107/4 and the innings was saved by the consistency of their middle order. Jofra Archer and his bowling unit was looking a bit too dangerous and the Kiwis weren’t exactly able to navigate through the Englishman’s spell of bowling. Jacob Bethell chipped in with 3 wickets and he did an excellent job to clean up Tom Blundell and to break the partnership.

Middle-order partnerships lift New Zealand to 391

The importance of the knock of Glenn Philips cannot be overstated as their middle order did their best to bring back the momentum on their side. Tom Blundell and Farryl Mitchell did a great job to score some crucial runs on the board after their dismissal it was important that Philips carried on. Kyle Jamieson played an explosive cameo of 41 from 48 balls and that knock did hold a considerable amount of weightage. Despite New Zealand losing a couple of wickets early on in the game, the flow of runs didn’t necessarily slow down. New Zealand’s total of 391 would be a decent one for the side but the rest of the responsibility would be heavily dependent on the bowlers.

England have been quite good with the ball in the first innings as they were ale to pick some early wickets. Jofra Archer has been in good rhythm and that was reflected in his bowling as well as he picked up Tom Latham early on in the game. Sonny Baker cleaned up Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra as both of them looked set in their crease but Baker proved to be too good for them. Matthew Fisher and Jacob Bethell were also key to much of their success as they picked up 5 wickets altogether, spoiling a chance for the side to go deeper into the game. New Zealand would be pretty satisfied with the total they have on board but they will need some early wickets.

As England will be hoping to put up phenomenal batting prowess against the New Zealand side, they will need their top order to fire. The Kiwi bowling unit is equally capable and they will be looking to protect the lead that their batters have created for the side. Ben Duckett and Emilio Gray will be looking to provide a solid-opening partnership for the side.