Another eventful day of Test cricket unfolded in Mount Maunganui as New Zealand were in a spot of bother in the morning session when they were reduced to 83/5, but Tom Blundell weathered the storm with a fine century. He stitched a valuable fifty stand with Devon Conway who was looking in great touch. The latter’s innings was ended by England captain Ben Stokes who resorted to the short ball tactic.
The visitors would have eyed a healthy first innings lead when NZ were 182/7 but Blundell was involved in two more half-century partnerships – first with Scott Kuggeleijn and then with Blair Tickner for the final wicket. The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter notched up his fourth Test ton and ensured that his team came within touching distance of England’s total.
We don’t know what is better the shot or the stop? 🤔
The Blundell-Tickner resistance remains strong as the New Zealanders near the English 1st innings score… #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/LVq9g0WUNP
— Cricket on BT Sport (@btsportcricket) February 17, 2023
