London, United Kingdom – Web Desk: England found themselves under pressure in the second day of the Oval Test against New Zealand after a series of setbacks left the hosts struggling in difficult conditions at The Oval.
In the absence of captain Ben Stokes, England showed early resilience but lost momentum on day two following tactical errors, a crucial dropped catch, and a commanding century from New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips that shifted the balance of the match.
New Zealand extended their first innings from an overnight 291 for seven to a total of 391 all out, putting them in a strong position.
In response, England saw Emilio Gay contribute a half-century while stand-in captain Joe Root scored 46 runs. However, the innings quickly unravelled as the hosts lost three wickets for just 35 runs.
A costly run-out of Ben Duckett added further pressure on England, who failed to build partnerships at a crucial stage.
New Zealand seamer Matt Henry then delivered a decisive spell, dismissing both Root and Harry Brook in quick succession, deepening England’s batting collapse.
By the end of the day, England had reached 222 for six, still trailing by 169 runs and facing an uphill battle to recover in the Test.
The match remains finely poised as New Zealand maintain control heading into the next day’s play.
