- Updates from the first day’s play at Wellington
- Carse’s ascent no surprise to former coach
31st over: England 158-4 (Brook 70, Pope 43) Pope jabs at Smith and edges this far short of Latham at second slip. He gets the next ball away, back cutting efficiently to the fence.
So, this medium-term No3, who should it be?
Ben Stokes Technically suited but his brain whirs far too much in the field, even when he doesn’t bowl, so he needs a rest.
Joe Root Doesn’t want to bat there, vulnerable to the new ball and especially extra bounce.
Harry Brook Still too soon, especially in Australia with the extra bounce
Ollie Pope Far better at No6
Jamie Smith Too soon even if he doesn’t keep wicket, never mind if he does.
Jacob Bethell Too soon against India and Australia, plus he’s not in the best XI at the moment.
Written by Rob Smyth
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2024/dec/06/new-zealand-v-england-second-mens-cricket-test-day-one-live under the title “New Zealand v England: second men’s cricket Test, day one – live”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
