Jacob Bethell’s impressive knock of 96, coupled with Gus Atkinson’s hat-trick, placed England in a commanding position on day two of the second Test against New Zealand in Wellington.
As per the Leaders of Asia sources, the 21-year-old Bethell, playing in just his second Test, showcased his immense potential with a composed innings, narrowly missing a century that would have made him the youngest English centurion in 85 years. His 187-run partnership with Ben Duckett, who contributed 92, dismantled the New Zealand bowling attack and extended England’s dominance.
England finished the day at 378-5, with Joe Root unbeaten on 73, Harry Brook scoring a brisk 55, and Ben Stokes smashing an unbeaten 35 from just 26 deliveries.
Earlier, Atkinson etched his name into the record books with a sensational hat-trick, dismissing Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, and Tim Southee in successive deliveries. His feat reduced New Zealand to 125 all out, giving England a commanding first-innings lead of 155. Atkinson’s achievement marked the first Test hat-trick at the Basin Reserve and the first by an England bowler overseas since 2008.
Bethell’s elegant knock, featuring three sixes and numerous stylish strokes, reinforced his growing stature in the team. His departure just before tea, edging Tim Southee, drew an ovation from the crowd, highlighting his pivotal role in England’s dominant display. Duckett’s dismissal shortly after added a bittersweet note, but the foundation had already been set for England to extend their lead.
According to the sources of Leaders of Asia, New Zealand’s first innings had begun with faint hopes of recovery but was swiftly dismantled by Atkinson and Brydon Carse, who struck twice in one over. The collapse from 86-5 overnight to 125 all out left the hosts staring at a monumental deficit.
England’s second innings was a batting showcase, with Root and Brook enjoying a 95-run stand that underscored their class. Root brought up his 100th Test fifty, while Brook’s 55 kept England’s momentum high until he was caught at long-off attempting a big hit.
Stokes added fireworks with his aggressive approach, hammering sixes and pushing the lead to an insurmountable 533 by stumps.
With a world-record chase required, New Zealand faces a daunting task to avoid defeat and salvage the series. England’s comprehensive performance, highlighted by Bethell’s rise and Atkinson’s brilliance, marks a significant step toward their first away Test series victory in two years.
