England have taken control of the second Test against New Zealand after a superb bowling performance from James Anderson and Jack Leach put the hosts on 138-7 at the close of play on day two.
Anderson and Leach were the stars of the show for England, with the former taking 4-31 and the latter 3-37. The pair bowled with great control and accuracy, and were able to make the most of the conditions to put the Kiwis under pressure.
The day began with New Zealand resuming on their overnight score of 33-2, and they were soon in trouble as Anderson struck twice in the first over of the day. He removed Tom Latham for 11 and then had Ross Taylor caught behind for a duck.
The Kiwis were then reduced to 53-5 as Leach got in on the act, dismissing BJ Watling and Colin de Grandhomme in quick succession.
The visitors then rallied somewhat, with Henry Nicholls and Mitchell Santner putting on a partnership of 55 for the sixth wicket. However, Anderson returned to the attack and removed Nicholls for 33, before Leach dismissed Santner for 28.
The tail then wagged somewhat, with Tim Southee and Neil Wagner putting on a partnership of 33 for the eighth wicket. However, Anderson returned to the attack and removed Wagner for 15, before Leach wrapped up the innings by dismissing Southee for 17.
At the close of play, England were in a strong position, with the hosts on 138-7 in reply. Joe Root and Rory Burns have both looked in good form, and the pair will be looking to build a big partnership on day three.
Overall, it was a superb day for England, and they will be confident of pushing for victory in the second Test. Anderson and Leach were the stars of the show, and their performance has put the hosts in a strong position.
