Australia’s Tour of New Zealand 2024 (1st Test)
Nathan Lyon and Cameron Green led Australia to a resounding victory against New Zealand in the first Test at the Basin Reserve. Cameron Green’s unbeaten 174 in the first innings, rescued a stumbling Australia, making way for a brilliant four days of cricket. Nathan Lyon’s ten-wicket match haul then spun a web around the New Zealand batsmen, leaving them floundering in the face of his guile and accuracy.
Earlier in the match, Australia laid the foundation for victory with solid contributions from their batsmen. Despite facing early setbacks, including the loss of Steven Smith before Lunch on the opening day, resilient partnerships anchored by Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh helped Australia amass a commanding first-innings total of 383. Lyon’s pivotal role with the ball in the first innings, backed by Josh Hazlewood’s support, then downed New Zealand for 179, granting Australia a significant advantage.
Sadly, Australia were taken down in similar fashion, collapsing to 169 by mid day 3 thanks to a five wicket haul by Glenn Phillips. New Zealand’s target was set at 369 with two whole days to play. However, Australia’s dominance with the ball continued. Lyon’s relentless probing in the second innings further exposed New Zealand’s batting frailties, with the hosts succumbing to his spin prowess. Despite brief resistance from the likes of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand’s batting order crumbled under Lyon’s relentless pressure, eventually succumbing to a 172-run defeat.
Chief Scores :
Australia – 383 for 10 (Cameron Green 174*, Mitchell Marsh 40, Matt Henry 5 for 70, Scott Kuggeleijn 2 for 75)
New Zealand – 179 for 10 (Glenn Phillips 71, Matt Henry 42, Nathan Lyon 4 for 43, Josh Hazlewood 2 for 55)
Australia – 164 for 10 (Nathan Lyon 41, Cameron Green 34, Glen Phillips 5 for 45, Matt Henry 3 for 36)
New Zealand – Rachin Ravindra 59, Daryl Mitchell 38, Nathan Lyon 6 for 65, Josh Hazlewood 2 for 20)
