• England strengthened their position against New Zealand on Day 2 of the second Test at the Basin Reserve.

  • Gus Atkinson stole the spotlight early with a sensational hat-trick in the game.

Twitter reactions: Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell headline England’s dominance over New Zealand on Day 2 of Wellington Test
England in strong position after Day 2 of Wellington Test (Image Source: X)

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England strengthened their position against New Zealand on Day 2 of the second Test at the Basin Reserve, Wellington. The day began with New Zealand resuming their innings at 86/5, but they crumbled under relentless bowling pressure, getting bowled out for just 125. Fast bowler Gus Atkinson stole the spotlight early with a sensational hat-trick, leaving the hosts reeling.

Atkinson dismissed Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, and Tim Southee in consecutive deliveries to complete his feat, becoming the 15th England bowler to claim a hat-trick in Test cricket. His effort, combined with Brydon Carse’s incisive spells, ensured New Zealand managed to add just 39 runs to their overnight total. Carse had earlier sent back Tom Blundell and nightwatchman William O’Rourke in quick succession, effectively dismantling the hosts’ resistance.

Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett dominate with the bat

With a 155-run first-innings lead, England’s batters came out with aggressive intent. Although Zak Crawley fell early to Matt Henry for the fourth time in the series, Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell produced a scintillating second-wicket partnership. The duo put New Zealand’s bowlers under immense pressure, smashing boundaries and sixes at will.

Duckett and Bethell raced to their half-centuries, keeping the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace. However, both batters fell in quick succession to Southee, narrowly missing out on centuries. Bethell nicked one to the keeper for 96, while Duckett dragged a delivery onto his stumps after scoring 92.

Joe Root and Harry Brook extend England’s command

The wickets before Tea gave New Zealand a glimmer of hope, but Joe Root and Harry Brook continued England’s onslaught in the final session. Their fluent partnership stretched England’s lead well beyond 400, as Root showcased his class with an unbeaten 73, marking his 65th Test fifty. Brook, who had scored a century in the first innings, added another brisk 55 before mistiming a lofted shot to long-off.

Henry provided a moment of respite for New Zealand by dismissing Ollie Pope late in the day, but England skipper Ben Stokes added to their misery. Stokes smashed an unbeaten 36 off just 26 balls, ensuring England ended the day in complete control with a colossal lead of 533 runs.

Also WATCH: NZ vs ENG – Gus Atkinson lights up Basin Reserve with brilliant hat-trick on Day 2 of second Test

England eye declaration as Day 3 beckons

With Root well-poised for his 36th Test century and England holding a commanding position, a declaration could be on the cards early on Day 3. New Zealand, already under immense pressure, face an uphill battle to save the Test and the series.

Here is how Twitter reacted

Also WATCH: NZ vs ENG – Daryl Mitchell grabs a breathtaking one-handed stunner to dismiss Joe Root on Day 1 of the second Test

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