Thrilling Turnaround: Australia’s Fightback Sets Up Tense Finale in Second Test against New Zealand

At the end of Day 3, Australia needed 202 runs to win with New Zealand requiring six wickets to secure victory in the second Test match.

In the second innings, New Zealand posted 372 runs, thanks to impressive performances by Rachin Ravindra (82), Tom Latham (73), and Daryl Mitchell (58). Despite trailing by 94 runs initially, they managed to set a target of 279 runs for Australia to chase down for victory. This target, if achieved, would mark the 14th highest successful fourth-innings run chase in Test cricket history.

At the close of play, Australia found themselves at 77/4, with Mitchell Marsh unbeaten at 27 and Travis Head at 17. Marsh and Head’s partnership held firm in the final overs of the day, preventing further losses for Australia.

Matt Henry and Ben Sears were instrumental for New Zealand in the final session, claiming two wickets each and reducing Australia to 34/4 before a late recovery.

Heading into the final day, New Zealand appeared to be in a strong position to maintain their unbeaten Test series streak at home. Australia’s lower-order batsmen, including Alex Carey and captain Pat Cummins, would need to deliver a solid performance to salvage the match.

New Zealand had a slight advantage on the second day when they were at 134/2 in their second innings. However, they built on this lead significantly on Sunday, notably through a partnership between Ravindra and Mitchell. Despite their efforts, wickets fell quickly towards the end, giving Australia hope of a comeback.

The first session of the day favored New Zealand as they added 105 runs while losing Latham’s wicket. Although Latham fell short of his century, Australia’s bowlers managed to keep the pressure on.

Alex Carey played a crucial role for Australia, taking four catches on the third day and one on day two, including the dismissal of Kane Williamson, to finish with a total of 10 catches in the match.