Tom Blundell slams his 12th half-century in Tests: Key stats
What's the story
New Zealand's wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell scored the team's first half-century of the series, as they fought back against England on the opening day of their second Test at The Oval. Blundell made a vital contribution of 51 runs and formed key partnerships with Daryl Mitchell (44) and Glenn Phillips (unbeaten on 49). The Black Caps ended the day at 291/7. Here's more.
Recovery
Blundell steadies New Zealand's ship with two gritty stands
New Zealand's batting performance was a stark contrast to their 115-run defeat in the first Test at Lord's earlier this month. After being sent into bat, they had a shaky start before being reduced to 107/4. Blundell walked in and steadied the ship with a partnership worth 81 alongside Daryl Mitchell, who fell for 44. After Mitchell departed, Phillips joined Blundell and the two put on 75 runs off 89 balls.
Bowling highlights
Bethell dismisses Blundell for 51 runs
Blundell was dismissed by all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who deceived him with a slower, flighted delivery. This was after the New Zealand wicketkeeper had completed his half-century off 82 balls on a pitch that offered more pace and bounce than the one at Lord's. New Zealand were 263/6 when Blundell fell in the 68th over. His knock of 51 had six fours.
Numbers
8th fifty-plus score versus England for Blundell
Blundell's 51 saw him get to 2,418 runs from 47 matches (76 innings) at 35.04. He clocked his 12th fifty (100s: 6). As per ESPNcricinfo, 11 matches versus England (20 innings), Blundell has amassed 956 runs at 53.11. He smashed his 5th fifty (100s: 3). Meanwhile, Blundell now owns 10 fifty-plus scores in away matches (home of opposition). He has raced to 1,214 runs from 22 matches (36 innings) at 34.68.