LONDON : England tightened their grip on the opening test against New Zealand after Ollie Robinson claimed a five-wicket haul and the hosts extended their advantage to 99 runs by lunch on the second day at Lord’s on Friday.
Resuming on 61-6, New Zealand’s hopes of a recovery were quickly dashed as they were dismissed for 113 in the morning session, handing England a first-innings lead of 27 runs.
Robinson, returning to England’s test side, completed figures of 5-39 when he bowled Matt Henry for a duck. The achievement earned him a place on the Lord’s honours board after a disciplined spell that dismantled New Zealand’s lower order.
Josh Tongue also played a key role, taking 3-40 and striking in successive overs to remove Glenn Phillips for 34 and Nathan Smith for 15.
New Zealand’s only meaningful resistance came from Kyle Jamieson, who remained unbeaten on a brisk 38 from 29 balls. His counter-attacking innings included three sixes and helped push the tourists past the 100-run mark.
England made a positive start to their second innings and reached 72-1 by lunch. Ben Duckett scored 33 before edging Will O’Rourke to Glenn Phillips at gully.
Debutant Emilio Gay was unbeaten on 24 at the interval, with Jacob Bethell alongside him, as England moved into a commanding position with a lead approaching three figures and nine wickets still in hand.
