NZ vs Eng 2nd-Test: Teams set for a gripping finale
What's the story
The 2nd Test between New Zealand and England is beautifully placed with both teams in with a chance. New Zealand ended Day 4 of the 2nd Test at 42/0 after being set a target of 382 runs. The hosts need 340 runs on the fifth day to win. The equation for England is simple, they need 10 wickets at any cost.
Grinding it out
Kiwi openers stay solid in chase
New Zealand openers Jeet Raval (17*) and Tom Latham (25*) made sure they ended the tricky final session by sticking it out at the crease. England had a go at them for 23 overs and credit goes to the duo for showing a lot of graft. The duo struck five boundaries between them and did not try anything flashy.
Hanging in
Root, Malan score vital fifties for England
Joe Root (54) and Dawid Malan (53) shared a defining 97-run stand for the fourth wicket for England. They played well and gave England the base required to build on the target. They got out in a span of 3 balls to leave England at 262/5, but Jonny Bairstow hung around and was well supported by the final three batsmen. England declared at 352/9.
Information
England bowlers will need to step up
The fifth day will be crucial for England and with what the bowlers extracted on Day 4, there will be hope. Jack Leach got the ball to spin and turn and will be excited to have a go at Kiwi batsmen.