Harry Brook's Daring Counterattack Revives England After New Zealand’s Early Dominance

New Zealand had England on the back foot at 43-4 on the first morning of the second test. However, Harry Brook's aggressive play brought England back to 124-4 by lunch. Brook scored a swift half-century, sharing an 81-run partnership with Ollie Pope, seizing momentum for his team.

In a dramatic start to the second test, England faced a daunting 43-4 on the first morning, their prospects grim until Harry Brook's aggressive stroke play turned the tide. Brook quickly amassed a half-century, demonstrating confident hitting with five boundaries and two sixes in his unbeaten 51 by lunch.

Brook's partnership with Ollie Pope, who remained 29 not out, added 81 valuable runs for the fifth wicket. Their 50-run partnership was completed in just 37 balls. New Zealand, who historically struggled with catches, maintained their grip with compact fielding, having dismissed significant England batsmen early, including Crawley and Root.

Matt Henry was instrumental with key wickets, exploiting the pitch conditions beautifully. England's previous test performance benefited from New Zealand's dropped chances, a luxury they didn't afford in this match. Yet, Brook's calculated aggression kept England competitive as the session concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)