The World Test champions were 4-236 at the end of day two, thanks to a 180-run stand between Mitchell (97 not out) and Blundell (90 not out). All-rounder Mitchell and wicket-keeper batsman Blundell stepped in to bring their team back into the competition after New Zealand’s top-order failed to impress, including captain Kane Williamson (15).
The pair’s sensible performance came as a big relief for the Black Caps, who were bundled out for 132 in the first innings by the England pacers. Wickets fell on the opening day and the morning session on the second day but things calmed down by the afternoon as New Zealand looked steady with the bat.
Stuart Broad and James Anderson kept the pressure on but both the batsmen took an aggressive approach and took the bowling attack at hand. The visitors made quick runs in the third session, from there both Mitchell and Blundell came close to centuries, while England looked for a break through.
England vs New Zealand Day 1 Highlights & Talking Points
Mitchell hit 11 boundaries and Blundell hit 12 in New Zealand’s second innings, putting England under pressure before the third day. Debutant Matthew Potts, who took four wickets in the first innings, took 2-50 wickets, while Jimmy Anderson and The returning pair of Stuart Broad also took a wicket each.
New captain Ben Stokes also experimented with spin bowling by bringing in Joe Root and Matt Parkinson, who replaced Jack Leach, but this did not bring any success. Earlier in the second day, England were bowled out for 141 in reply to New Zealand’s 132, with the hosts taking a lead of just nine runs.
After another batting collapse on the first day, England started the second day at 7–116 but their innings did not last long as Tim Southee and Trent Boult bowled wicket-taking. England have won just one of their last 17 Test matches under new head coach Brendon McCullum and are aiming to move on from their disappointing tours in the Caribbean and Australia.
After the match at Lord’s, they will host New Zealand in two more Test matches.