Atkinson’s hat-trick and Duckett-Bethell stand propel England to commanding position on day 2
WELLINGTON: England took a firm grip on the second Test against New Zealand at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday, thanks to Gus Atkinson’s hat-trick and a dominant batting display. By the close of play on Day 2, England reached 378/5, holding a massive 533-run lead over the hosts.
The day began with England’s seamers tearing through New Zealand’s batting lineup. Atkinson’s stunning hat-trick, part of his figures of 4-31, and Brydon Carse’s fiery 4-46 restricted the Black Caps to a paltry 125. This impressive performance put England on course for their first Test series win in New Zealand since 2008, having already secured victory in the first Test.
England’s batters then seized the momentum. Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell anchored the innings with a superb 187-run partnership for the second wicket. Both fell agonizingly short of centuries, with Duckett scoring 92 and Bethell 96. First-innings centurion Harry Brook added a brisk 55, further extending England’s dominance.
Joe Root, celebrating his 100th career half-century, ended the day unbeaten on 73, while captain Ben Stokes contributed an aggressive 35*. Stokes opted not to declare, giving England the opportunity to consolidate their lead further on Day 3.
