The 1985 loss remains vividly remembered, not just for the disappointment of being defeated by an innings, but also for the impressive performance of all-rounder Greg Matthews, who was known for his unique personality and was often unappreciated during a challenging time for the Australian cricket team.
This marks the first instance in four years where the Australian Test team has made a trip to New Zealand. While the Wallabies frequently invite the All Blacks to their home territory for a defeat, it seems to be a bit inhospitable for the Kiwis to not reciprocate. Tanya Aldred may have insight on why these close allies and rivalries have not met in a while.
For those who joined late, here’s a recap of what happened on the first day.
Hello cricket enthusiasts, we are delighted to have you here in Wellington for the second day of the initial Test match between Australia and New Zealand competing for the Trans-Tasman trophy.
On the first day, both teams had moments of dominance. New Zealand chose to field after winning the toss, but Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja managed to handle the challenging green-top pitch at the Basin Reserve and score 60 runs without losing any wickets.
However, Smith’s dismissal just before lunch sparked a decline in Australia’s performance. In the following session, Tim Southee’s Black Caps aggressively took down the Australian top order. At one point, Australia lost four wickets in only 17 overs, with the poor recent form of No 3 Marnus Labuschagne and No 5 Travis Head persisting, as they were both dismissed for one run. Matt Henry was the main culprit, delivering a powerful inswinger that shattered Khawaja’s middle stump in a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Two versatile players from West Australia halted the downward trend. Mitch Marsh, still basking in the glory of his Allan Border medal, confidently stepped onto the field amidst the chaos, smashing his first ball for a four and initiating Australia’s comeback. On the other side, No 4 batsman Cameron Green persevered and stayed in the game. However, when Marsh left at 40 runs, Green took control, increasing the pace and guiding the lower order past the 200 mark.
Green’s innings was superb. After plodding to tea, he accelerated in the final session, eventually notching his second Test century from the final over of the day and stealing the ascendency from the home side. He resumes today on 103 and Australia nine for 279.
Source: theguardian.com
