LONDON : England’s first test against New Zealand was interrupted by rain on the opening day at Lord’s on Thursday, with the hosts reaching 24-1 in 10 overs after being sent in to bat.
Play was halted shortly before lunch as persistent rain forced the players from the field and umpires called an early break, with the pitch remaining under covers.
England handed a test debut to opener Emilio Gay, who became the latest player to earn a maiden cap for the hosts. However, his first innings at the highest level was short-lived as he was dismissed for eight.
Gay edged a delivery from New Zealand seamer Kyle Jamieson to first slip in the sixth over, leaving England at an early setback.
Ben Duckett was unbeaten on 12 when play stopped, while Jacob Bethell, batting at number three, had made four not out.
The match marks England’s first test appearance since January as they begin a new home campaign against New Zealand at the historic London venue.
With weather forecasts suggesting further interruptions are possible, both sides will hope for improved conditions to allow play to resume later in the day.
