Sat Nov 30 04:44:10 UTC 2024: ## England Stumble to Close Day Two 29 Runs Behind New Zealand
**Christchurch, New Zealand:** England ended day two of the first Test against New Zealand 29 runs behind after a shaky start to their innings. New Zealand, dismissed for 348 earlier in the day, were aided by 42 extras conceded by the English bowlers, their highest such total in five years. Kane Williamson top-scored for the hosts with 93.
England’s batting woes continued as Zak Crawley was dismissed for a duck, continuing his poor run against New Zealand. He averages just 11.13 against them in Test cricket. Fellow opener Ben Duckett showed more resilience, but Ollie Pope’s impressive 77 ended with a spectacular catch by Glenn Phillips. Joe Root also fell for a duck, leaving England struggling at the close.
Despite the early setbacks, Harry Brook provided a much-needed boost with a 123-ball century, showcasing his class even after being dropped four times. Brydon Carse impressed with the ball for England, taking two wickets, while the absence of Chris Woakes was noticeable. The match remains finely poised with England needing to bat responsibly to avoid the follow-on.
First Piper 