New Zealand vs England: Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson shine as tourists dominate in second Test
Gus Atkinson’s hat-trick followed by Jacob Bethell’s 96 to seal England’s second Test against New Zealand two days later in Wellington.
The 21-year-old Bethell, making his second cap for his country, once again proved his immense potential despite falling four short of becoming England’s youngest Test hundred in 85 years.
He scored 187 for the second wicket and his left-hander Ben Duckett scored 92, giving England complete control over a mediocre New Zealand side.
When Duckett was out, England’s lead was 366 runs. Joe Root helped himself to 73 not out, Harry Brook scored 55 and Ben Stokes made an unbeaten 35 off 26 balls to keep the visitors at bay. 378-5 behind.
All this after pace bowler Atkinson took the last three wickets of New Zealand’s first innings on consecutive deliveries England 15th Test hat-trick.
Atkinson brought on Nathan Smith, put Matt Henry in the gully, and trapped Tim Southee’s legs.
This left New Zealand 125 all out, 155 behind, and a deficit of 533 at the close.
Barring a world record break, England will win a Test series in the country for the first time since 2008.
