The second Test between England and New Zealand at Edgbaston has been a thrilling affair, with the Kiwis putting up a strong fight to foil England’s hopes of winning inside three days. After a dominant first day, England looked set to wrap up the match quickly, but New Zealand’s resilient batting and bowling performances have kept them in the game.
The match began with England winning the toss and electing to bat first. The hosts got off to a strong start, with openers Rory Burns and Dom Sibley putting on a solid partnership of 83. However, the Kiwis fought back with some tight bowling, and the English innings soon began to unravel. The visitors took regular wickets, and England were eventually bowled out for a below-par total of 268.
In reply, New Zealand got off to a good start, with openers Tom Latham and Tom Blundell putting on a solid partnership of 73. However, the English bowlers soon began to take control, and the Kiwis were soon reduced to 131-5. At this point, it looked like England were on course for a comfortable victory.
However, the Kiwis had other ideas. A brilliant partnership between BJ Watling and Colin de Grandhomme saw the visitors reach a respectable total of 278. This was a crucial moment in the match, as it meant that England would have to bat again and score a big total to win the match.
The second innings began with England in a strong position, but the Kiwis soon began to take control. The English batsmen struggled to cope with the pressure, and the visitors took regular wickets. The match was further complicated by the fact that Ben Stokes was struggling with a left knee injury, and he was unable to contribute with the bat.
The match eventually ended in a draw, with England unable to reach the target set by New Zealand. This was a huge disappointment for the hosts, who had been hoping to wrap up the match inside three days. However, the Kiwis deserve huge credit for their performance, as they managed to foil England’s hopes of victory.
The result means that the series is now level at 1-1, with the final Test at Lord’s set to be a thrilling affair. Both teams will be looking to take the lead in the series, and it promises to be an exciting contest. The Kiwis will be hoping to continue their impressive form, while England will be desperate to get back to winning ways.