Australia’s dominance over New Zealand continued as they secured a resounding 172-run victory in the first Test at Wellington’s Basin Reserve. Nathan Lyon’s exceptional bowling performance, coupled with Cameron Green’s match-defining innings, proved too much for the Black Caps.
Lyon, Australia’s premier spinner, wreaked havoc on the New Zealand batting lineup, claiming six wickets for 65 runs in the second innings. His victims included Rachin Ravindra, Tom Blundell, and Glenn Phillips, as he completed his 24th five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
New Zealand began the day with a daunting target of 369, but Lyon’s early strikes put them on the back foot. Daryl Mitchell and Scott Kuggeleijn offered some resistance, but Cameron Green’s dismissal of Kuggeleijn for 26 extinguished their hopes.
Despite a blow to the helmet from Green, Mitchell continued to fight, scoring 38. However, he ran out of partners as Lyon and the Australian attack quickly wrapped up the New Zealand tail.
Australia captain Pat Cummins praised Lyon’s performance, stating, “Thankfully it spun which, with Nathan in our side, is always a pretty good thing.”
This loss leaves New Zealand with only one victory in their last 24 Tests against Australia. They will now prepare for the second and final match of the series in Christchurch, starting on Friday.
New Zealand skipper Tim Southee acknowledged the need for improvement, saying, “Like every game, we’ll reflect and look at ways that we can be better in the next one.”
While Lyon’s performance was exceptional, it was Cameron Green’s brilliant innings that truly made the difference. His partnership of 116 runs with Josh Hazlewood for the tenth wicket set the foundation for Australia’s victory.
Cummins praised Green, saying, “He was amazing, he was really the difference in the end.” Green’s unbeaten knock of 170 put pressure on the bowlers and helped Australia post a total of 383 in their first innings, giving them a significant lead.
Although New Zealand fought back on day three with Glenn Phillips taking 5-45, Lyon’s experience and skill proved too much for the Black Caps on a challenging pitch.
It was Hazlewood who delivered the final blow, dismissing Mitchell with a well-directed delivery that was easily caught and bowled. This sealed Australia’s emphatic victory.
