Australia’s Dominance Continues: Lyon and Green Lead Charge in First Test Against New Zealand

Australia continued their dominance on day three of the first Test against New Zealand at Basin Reserve as Nathan Lyon and Cameron Green led the charge. Lyon fell short of a maiden Test half-century but provided crucial runs, while Green showcased resilience at the crease. Despite New Zealand’s efforts to stage a comeback, Australia’s lead surpassed 300 runs by lunch.

Under challenging windy and overcast conditions, Australia lost Usman Khawaja for 28, but Green and Travis Head steadied the innings. Green, coming off an impressive century in the first innings, looked solid, while Head, who had struggled in recent innings, showed signs of resurgence with a brisk knock of 24 off 26 balls.

Lyon, playing the role of the nightwatchman, frustrated New Zealand’s bowlers early on, denying them the breakthroughs they desperately needed. Although Lyon missed out on his fifty, his contribution helped Australia extend their lead comfortably.

New Zealand, facing an uphill battle, struggled to contain Australia’s batting onslaught. Despite showing improvements in their bowling as the session progressed, New Zealand’s hopes of a comeback seemed bleak, especially considering the daunting task of chasing a target over 300 runs at Basin Reserve, historically a challenging proposition.

The pitch, though not without its challenges, seemed to offer slightly easier conditions for batting compared to the earlier days of the match. With showers predicted for day five, Australia aimed to push the game forward and secure a favorable position.

New Zealand’s disappointing performance on day two left them trailing significantly in the match. Despite hoping for momentum from late wickets on the previous day, they found themselves once again struggling against Australia’s determined batting lineup.

Lyon, who survived some nervy moments late on day two, capitalized on loose deliveries from the New Zealand bowlers to accumulate valuable runs. However, his innings was cut short before reaching the milestone as he fell to Matt Henry.

Following Lyon’s dismissal, New Zealand’s bowlers regained composure and applied pressure, slowing down Australia’s scoring rate. However, Green continued to anchor the innings, displaying maturity beyond his years.

With showers looming over the final day, Australia aimed to consolidate their position of strength, while New Zealand sought a miraculous turnaround to salvage the Test match.

Australia reached 50 runs in 15.2 overs, taking 92 balls with 1 extra.

During the drinks break, Australia stood at 71/3 after 21.0 overs, with Usman Khawaja scoring 20 and Cameron Green on 7.

The team achieved the 100-run mark in 33.2 overs, facing 200 balls with 1 extra.

At lunch, Australia was at 113/4 after 35.0 overs, with Cameron Green at 17 and Travis Head at 24.

Australia reached 150 runs in 46.2 overs, spanning 278 balls with 2 extras.

During the drinks interval, Australia’s score stood at 159/9 after 47.5 overs, with Mitchell Starc on 8.

The innings break came as Australia finished at 164/10 in 51.1 overs, with Josh Hazlewood scoring 1 run.