England tighten grip as New Zealand lose three in 254 run chase

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Jun 06, 2026

England moved firmly into control of the first Test against New Zealand after another extraordinary day for bowlers at Lord's, with 17 wickets falling on Day 2 and the hosts reducing the visitors to 36-3 in pursuit of 254.

Resuming on 61-6, New Zealand were bowled out for 113, conceding a 27-run first-innings deficit. Returning seamer Ollie Robinson completed a five-wicket haul with 5-39, while Josh Tongue claimed 3-40.

The standout contribution for New Zealand came from Kyle Jamieson, who struck a counterattacking unbeaten 38.

England's second innings started positively as Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay put together a solid opening stand. Gay went on to score an impressive 57, registering his maiden Test fifty.

However, New Zealand hit back through Nathan Smith and William O'Rourke. England collapsed from 126-2 to 127-6, with Harry Brook, Joe Root and Ben Stokes all falling cheaply.

A valuable recovery came from Jamie Smith, whose 39 helped England stretch their lead beyond 250.

Nathan Smith starred with the ball, finishing with outstanding figures of 6-70 as England were dismissed for 226.

Having set 254 to win on a lively surface, New Zealand endured another difficult start. Gus Atkinson removed captain Tom Latham for a duck before Tongue trapped Kane Williamson lbw.

Nightwatchman O'Rourke was then bowled at the close, leaving the tourists struggling at 36-3. With only seven wickets remaining and 218 runs still needed, New Zealand face a daunting task on a pitch that has already produced 33 wickets in just two days.