Tom Blundell scored New Zealand’s first fifty of the series and Glenn Phillips posted an unbeaten 49 as the tourists fought back against England in the second Test at the Oval. The Black Caps were 291-7 at stumps, with England aiming to move past the Ben Stokes controversy. Fast bowler Sonny Baker took two wickets on debut.
Blundell’s 51 and partnerships of 81 with Daryl Mitchell (44) and 75 with Phillips after New Zealand had slumped to 107-4 were crucial. Mitchell praised Blundell and Phillips for their contributions, while Phillips hit two boundaries off successive deliveries from Baker.
This was a significant improvement in New Zealand’s batting following their loss by 115 runs in the first Test at Lord’s. England made five changes, with Baker taking 2-63, removing Rachin Ravindra for his maiden Test wicket. England captain Joe Root and Gus Atkinson were dropped after a win at Lord’s that followed their Ashes series defeat in Australia.
England conceded 59 runs at stumps and 44 extras, while Matthew Fisher replaced Kane Williamson with a catch behind by Rew. Archer dismissed New Zealand captain Tom Latham.