After caretaker captain Joe Root elected to bowl first, the delayed start due to a wet outfield did not disrupt New Zealand’s batting rhythm. The visitors were built around valuable contributions from Tom Blundell (51), Daryl Mitchell (44) and Rachin Ravindra (33), all of whom helped lay a solid foundation.
However, England found their way back into the competition through an unlikely source. Off-spinner Jacob Bethell produced a crucial spell late in the day, claiming 2 wickets for just 8 runs in five overs to trigger a small collapse and prevent New Zealand from taking complete control.
Ahead of Day 2, the focus will be on unbeaten Glenn Phillips (49*), who is one run away from a half-century, and Kyle Jamieson (6*). If the pair can negotiate the opening session and frustrate England’s bowlers, New Zealand will feel they have a chance of posting a first innings total in excess of 350.
England, meanwhile, are fielding a significantly reshuffled team following the suspensions of regular captain Ben Stokes and leading paceman Gus Atkinson. The hosts gave debuts to three players, including seamer Sonny Baker, who impressed with figures of 2/63 on the first day, and wicketkeeper James Rew.
With the humidity expected to dissipate as the match progresses, the oval surface is likely to become more and more suitable for hitting. That could prompt England’s revamped top order, which includes debutant Emilio Gay and striker Ben Duckett, to adopt a positive approach when it’s their turn with the bat.
