LONDON: New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and wicket-keeper batter Tom Blundell stunned England’s bowler on the second day of Lord’s Test match, as the pair revived the batter’s hope with their 180 runs fifth-wicket partnership in a bowlers’ dominated match.

The strong-looking partnership cemented New Zealand’s grip on the Test match as the side achieved a lead of 227 runs over England.

New Zealand started their second inning with a deficit of nine runs as England were all out on 141 in the first session. Right-arm pacer Tim Southee sent four batters to the pavilion with his agonizing pace along with left-arm fast bowler Trent Boult who bagged three wickets for his side.

New Zealand batting jittered and showcased a similar woeful start to their second innings as the side lost three wickets on 38 runs before the lunch.

Kiwi batter Devon Conway soon followed the suit after the lunch as he fell prey to the fast bowler Stuart Board in a caught behind.

Blundell came out on crease when Kiwis were struggling at 51/4 and played cautiously with Michell. The pair faced fierce-looking England’s bowlers as they played till the end of the day’s play.

All-rounder Mitchell scored 97 runs off 188 balls which included 11 boundaries. Blundell, on the other hand, minted 90 runs off 182 balls as he hit the ball for the boundaries 12 times.

New Zealand will resume their second inning from 236/4 on the third day of Lord’s Test.

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