TOP SPIN AT THE TEST: England’s batting woes continue… as New Zealand put themselves in a strong position to win just their second Test at Lord’s in 91 years
- England were bowled out for just 141 after another batting collapse at Lord’s
- Losing wickets in quick succession has become a habit in recent years
- Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell are closing in on centuries for New Zealand
- New Zealand have put themselves on top in the match after the second day
- A win at Lord’s would be only their second victory at the venue since 1931
Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell batted New Zealand into a position of strength on day two of the opening Test at Lord’s, sharing an unbroken stand of 180.
The pair came together with the Kiwis struggling on 56-4, but managed to turn the match in their team’s favour by the close.
Sportsmail’s Lawrence Booth takes at the facts and figures following an intriguing day at the home of cricket.
Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell’s partnership has turned the First Test in New Zealand’s favour
England’s first-innings collapse of 10 for 82 was the seventh time in the last three years they have lost all 10 wickets for 85 or fewer.
The previous eight instances were spread out over 30 years.
England lost their last three wickets cheaply on Friday morning as they finished on just 141
Only twice before have two or more New Zealanders made centuries in the same Lord’s Test. In 1931, in the country’s first game at the ground, Charles Dempster and Curly Page both reached three figures.
And in 1973, the feat was achieved by Bev Congdon, Mark Burgess and Vic Pollard. Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell could add to the list today.
If New Zealand complete victory here, it will be only their second Test win at Lord’s in 19 attempts going back to 1931.
Their previous win came in 1999 under Stephen Fleming.
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
