Australian pace attack Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood ripped through the New Zealand batting lineup on the opening day of the second Test in Christchurch, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Starc, in particular, etched his name further into Australian cricketing history by surpassing legendary Dennis Lillee for the fourth-highest wicket tally in Test matches for Australia.
Starc Enters Elite Company
Starc’s three-wicket haul, which included dismissing key batsmen in consecutive deliveries, propelled him past Lillee’s mark of 355 Test wickets. He now sits comfortably in fourth place with 357 scalps, behind only the legendary spin trio of Shane Warne (708), Glenn McGrath (563), and Nathan Lyon (527).
The left-arm pacer’s achievement comes amidst a dominant bowling performance by Australia. Teammate Josh Hazlewood wreaked havoc earlier in the day, claiming a five-wicket haul for just 31 runs. Opener Tom Latham (38) offered the lone resistance for the Kiwis, with the rest of the batting lineup failing to capitalise against the relentless Australian pace attack.
| Bowler | Wickets |
| Shane Warne | 708 |
| Glenn McGrath | 563 |
| Nathan Lyon | 527 |
| Mitchell Starc | 357 |
| Dennis Lillee | 355 |
Hazlewood Sets the Tone for Australian Domination
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australian captain Pat Cummins saw his decision pay immediate dividends. Hazlewood justified his captain’s faith by dismantling the top order, including the prized wicket of the world’s No. 1 ranked Test batsman, Kane Williamson, who was trapped LBW for a mere 17 runs.
While the early dismissals put New Zealand on the back foot, some late resistance from the lower order offered a glimmer of hope. Matt Henry (29) and Tim Southee (26) provided some late-innings fightback, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a New Zealand collapse. The hosts were eventually bundled out for a paltry 162 runs, leaving Australia in a commanding position heading into Day Two.
Australia Eye Series Victory
With their bowling attack firing on all cylinders, Australia has put themselves in a strong position to clinch the series victory against New Zealand. The second Test, crucial for both teams, could see Australia continue their dominance and potentially wrap up the series early.
The Christchurch crowd can expect another exciting day of Test cricket as Australia looks to build on their strong start and New Zealand seeks to salvage some pride.
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