Kane Williamson Shines on Return to Test Cricket in Opening Clash Against England

Kane Williamson made a notable return to Test cricket, scoring 93 runs as New Zealand ended Day 1 of the first Test against England at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on 319 for 8. England opted to bowl first after winning the toss on a green-tinged pitch but struggled initially as Williamson stabilised the innings with solid partnerships, notably with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell.

Despite a promising start, New Zealand faced a dramatic collapse in the final session, losing five wickets for just 25 runs. The standout performer for England was Shoaib Bashir, who claimed four wickets for 69 runs, including crucial dismissals of Williamson and Tom Blundell. Brydon Carse and Gus Atkinson each contributed with two wickets.

Williamson’s innings was vital, showcasing resilience after missing the recent series against India due to injury. However, his dismissal sparked a rapid decline for the hosts, who had been comfortably placed at 227 for 4 earlier in the day. Glenn Phillips, remaining not out on 41, partnered with Tim Southee, who added 10 runs, as the New Zealand innings concluded at 319.

As England heads into Day 2, with the new ball now in hand, they will aim to wrap up the New Zealand innings quickly, while New Zealand will look to extend their total and regain momentum. Both teams are in contention for the inaugural Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, named in honour of former players Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe.

Williamson drives New Zealand as Bashir four-for keeps England competitive

Williamson drives New Zealand as Bashir four-for keeps England competitive

NZ vs ENG 2024/25, New Zealand vs England Match Report: Carse, Atkinson and Bashir star with the ball after England send New Zealand in

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New Zealand vs England: Shoaib Bashir leads tourists' fightback in final session after Kane Williamson scores 93

New Zealand vs England: Shoaib Bashir leads tourists' fightback in final session after Kane Williamson scores 93

New Zealand close day one of first Test on 319-8 after England take five wickets in final session; off-spinner Shoaib Bashir strikes four times in Chr

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New Zealand vs England Live Score: New Zealand score after  83 overs is 319/8

New Zealand vs England Live Score: New Zealand score after 83 overs is 319/8

New Zealand vs England Live Score: New Zealand at 319/8 after 83 overs, Tim Southee at 10 runs and Glenn Phillips at 41 runs | Crickit

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How to watch New Zealand vs. England 1st Test online for free

How to watch New Zealand vs. England 1st Test online for free

Access a free live stream of this series from anywhere in the world.

mashable.com
New Zealand 319/8 in 83.0 Overs | New Zealand vs England Live Score, 1st Test  - The Times of India

New Zealand 319/8 in 83.0 Overs | New Zealand vs England Live Score, 1st Test - The Times of India

New Zealand and England will for the first time compete for the Crowe-Thorpe trophy, which was named in honour of former New Zealand captain Martin C

timesofindia.indiatimes.com
NZ vs ENG, 1st Test, Day 1 Highlights: Williamson 93 takes New Zealand to 319/8 at Stumps; Bashir picks four wickets

NZ vs ENG, 1st Test, Day 1 Highlights: Williamson 93 takes New Zealand to 319/8 at Stumps; Bashir picks four wickets

NZ vs ENG: Follow the highlights from Day 1 of the 1st Test between New Zealand and England from the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand.

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Kane Williamson returns for New Zealand’s first Test against England

Kane Williamson returns for New Zealand’s first Test against England

Former captain selected in XI at expense of in-form Will Young with Nathan Smith to debut for Black Caps at Hagley Oval

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Shoaib Bashir gives England upper hand on day one of first Test in New Zealand

Shoaib Bashir gives England upper hand on day one of first Test in New Zealand

England face New Zealand in the first Test at Hagley Oval, Christchurch - follow live text and score updates.

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