England have a golden chance to win in the first Test against New Zealand despite the chaotic collapse of four wickets for one run in 11 balls on the second day at Lord’s.
After 16 wickets fell on the first day, another 17 fell on Friday on a devilishly difficult surface to bat on: to the lateral movement has been added an alarming amount of uneven bounce.
At the end of it all, New Zealand are 36-3 chasing a victory target of 254. Captain Tom Latham was out off the third ball of the chase and, crucially, Kane Williamson was palpably lbw to Josh Tongue, before Gus Atkinson cleaned up nightwatchman Will O’Rourke.
Although the weather forecast for Saturday and Monday is poor, there will be a result in this match, with England the heavy favorites to secure a morale-boosting victory after their heavy defeat in the Ashes.
Ollie Robinson marked his return with Test-best figures of 5-39, taking the last wicket as New Zealand were bowled out for 113 in their first innings, an England lead of 27.
England, helped by Emilio Gay’s half-century on debut and more dropped catches from New Zealand, steadily built what looked like a commanding lead. Gay was euthanized and could have lost lbw in his 57th.
When Gay finally fell, the carnage began. Harry Brook, Joe Root and Ben Stokes followed within two overs. While an implosion in England was familiar, perhaps Stokes alone was to blame for his dismissal.
England’s lead was 154, with four wickets in hand. They were in danger of handing the initiative to New Zealand, only for important runs from the lower order. Jamie Smith had 39, Atkinson 14 and Robinson stole 29.
The hosts were eventually bowled out for 226, with New Zealand’s Nathan Smith notable for his six wickets.
