Rain hampers Black Caps progress
The Black Caps were denied the chance to bat England out of the first Test on day two in Auckland with rain limiting play to 23 overs and one ball.
Resuming on 175 for three Kane Williamson brought up his 18th Test century early on and in so doing became the all-time leading ton-maker for New Zealand passing Martin Crowe and Ross Taylor.
James Anderson picked up the only wicket to fall on the day shortly after England took the new ball.
Anderson trapped Williamson (102) leg before after rain had forced an early tea break.
Henry Nicholls (49*) and BJ Watling (17*) added 23 to the score taking New Zealand’s total to 229/4 and a lead of 171.
The players would not get back on the park for the evening session at all but the Black Caps will remain confident that they can finish off England after skittling them for 58 before lunch on day one.
With the rain getting heavier at @edenparknz, we've got time to enjoy one of the brighter spots in the day – Kane Williamson's record 18th Test century. 🎥= @skysportnz #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/H0uIQ0nSCK
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 23, 2018
Anderson is currently the pick of the English bowlers returning figures of 3/53 in his twenty overs.
Play will start half an hour earlier on each of the remaining three days should the match go the distance.
Latest
-
NewsTymal Mills credits The Hundred with key role in his England recall
Mills was named in England’s T20 World Cup squad after starring in the 100-ball franchise competition.
-
NewsECB to decide this week if Ashes tour of Australia can go ahead
Australia’s stringent approach to coronavirus restrictions has cast doubt on the marquee series.
-
NewsEngland still among T20 World Cup favourites without Stokes and Archer – Buttler
When England landed the 50-over crown at in 2019, Buttler, Stokes and Archer were the men who delivered for their country when the pressure was on.
-
NewsThis winter’s Ashes series will go ahead, says Australia captain Tim Paine
Joe Root has refused to fully commit to the tour, with the first Test scheduled for December 8.
-
NewsWarwickshire land glorious domestic double with Bob Willis Trophy win
Bears see of Lancashire with ease.
-
NewsIreland batter Paul Stirling cannot wait for the Men’s T20 World Cup
The explosive opener is excited for Ireland to once more test themselves against the best.
-
NewsEngland’s postponed tour of Holland rearranged for next June
England last faced the Dutch during the 2014 World Cup where they suffered a shock defeat.
-
NewsWill Rhodes and Rob Yates hit centuries as Warwickshire dominate Lancashire
Matt Parkinson was rewarded for his toil on a placid pitch with three wickets.
-
News
Jos Buttler against going to Australia without family as he awaits Ashes clarity
Buttler is preparing to fly to the United Arab Emirates next week for the Twenty20 World Cup.
-
NewsECB is braced for ‘more challenging discussions’ over Ashes tour
ECB chair Ian Watmore admitted there are more hurdles to be cleared after last week receiving the latest update from Cricket Australia.