'We were just thinking basically about the game' - Josh Hazlewood remarks on his record partnership with Cameron Green

In the first match against New Zealand, Australian bowler Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Cameron Green stitched a remarkable 10th-wicket partnership, adding an impressive 116 runs. This not only strengthened Australia's position in the match but also became the fourth-highest 10th-wicket partnership in Australian Test cricket history.

Green's phenomenal unbeaten score of 174* left cricket fans in awe, while Hazlewood contributed a valuable 22 runs, facing a commendable 62 balls. The duo's resilience not only propelled Australia's first-innings total but also kept New Zealand's fielders on their toes for over thirty overs. The hosts succumbed to the pressure, ultimately being dismissed for 179, conceding a massive first-innings lead of 204 runs.

Hazlewood, while discussing the approach of a No. 11 batter, highlighted the importance of simplicity after Day 2's play. He stressed avoiding overworking to appear as a batter, asserting that the tail is most effective when players focus on scoring options, defending good balls, and having strategies for short deliveries.

"I think sometimes you can work too much on it and try and be a batsman, and look like a batsman. I just don't think that's when the tail's at its most potent. Everyone's got to have their scoring options and keep the good ball out when it's at the stumps and have an option for the short ball, but it's as simple as that I think. It's just having a couple of options to score, a good defense, and trying not to look too pretty I think," Hazlewood told the reporters after the conclusion of Day 2's play.

Also Read: Green, Hazlewood break McGrath-Gillespie's long-standing record in New Zealand

It's all those little things you talk through, Greeny's nice to have a hit with: Hazlewood

Furthermore, Josh Hazlewood also highlighted the crucial partnership with Green, emphasizing their on-field discussions centred around game strategy, scoring options, and targeting specific bowlers. Their effective communication led to milestones like the 50 and 100-run marks, contributing significantly to Australia's impressive total nearing 400. Hazlewood also praised Green's batting skills, describing him as enjoyable to bat with.

"We were just thinking basically about the game. Where we were at and working out the four or five balls an over that Greeny was taking, and then he could target down breeze and a certain bowler. It's all those little things you talk through, and then all of a sudden we're 50 partnership, then 100, and geez, we're up near 400 so things just tick along when you're batting. Greeny's nice to have a hit with," he added.

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As Day 2 concluded, Australia found themselves in a commanding position with a substantial lead of 217 runs. The team remain optimistic about a strong batting performance on day three, aiming to solidify their position in the game.