The incredible evening session masks questions of England’s batting. Not that they were reckless, instead arguably too passive. Perhaps the criticism of their approach in Australia has created doubt.
In England’s defence, New Zealand were outstanding, even with Matt Henry limited to only four overs because of a back spasm. The touring pacemen were kept fresh by the rain breaks, moved the ball in the air and off the pitch, and exploited the uneven bounce.
Jamieson got most reward with his 5-72, yet Smith and Will O’Rourke were just as impressive.
Left-hander Gay drove his first ball in Test cricket for four, though could do little against one Jamieson got to move away, other than edge to first slip.
It was after a two-hour delay that England really struggled. Ben Duckett uncharacteristically left three of the first four balls he faced, then was lbw to Smith. Jacob Bethell was guilty of a loose drive to be leg before to O’Rourke, who also produced a beauty to find the edge of Joe Root. Jamie Smith characterised England’s timidity, playing not shot to be bowled by one Jamieson got to dart back.
Brook’s batting is anything but timid. After 10 balls on nought he began the counter, often advancing down the pitch. He should have been caught on eight by Conway at point, then was badly dropped by Ravindra at deep square leg on 45.
Brook drove and pulled his way to a 64-ball half-century, before one pull too many at Smith ended in the hands of long leg. Tongue and Shoaib Bashir added 22 for the last wicket, a priceless contribution in the context of the match.
