NZ v AUS 1st Test Review: New Zealand humiliated by Australia

Australia drew first blood against New Zealand in the 1st Test of the Chappel-Hadlee Trophy as they won by an innings and 52 runs. Brendon McCullum’s 100th Test was unfortunately spoilt as a determined Adam Voges hit yet another double century in his brief Test career. The 36-year-olds’ career which was miraculously revived struck 239 as he picked up the man of the match award.

All eyes were on Kiwi skipper Brendon McCullum as he was expected to produce a performance fitting the occasion. However, the Aussies crashed the party as Steve Smith won the toss inviting the hosts to bat first under trying conditions at Wellington. Day one saw the visitors smash put the New Zealand batting to the sword with Josh Hazelwood picking up four wickets. Hazelwood was ably supported by Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon as they picked up 3 wickets apiece.

The Kiwis were shot out for a paltry 183 in the first innings shortly after lunch. Despite losing Joe Burns and David Warner early on in the innings, Usman Khawaja justified his selection with a strokeful innings. Steve Smith partnered Khawaja as he played a captain’s knock of 71. Adam Voges, however, was the star of the show as he smashed his second double century. His 239 coupled with a brilliant 140 from Khawaja ensured that the Aussies finished off on 562 on the third day.

The second innings began well for the hosts as Tom Latham and Martin Guptill started off with distinctive freedom. Disaster, however, struck soon as Nathan Lyon was introduced into the attack. Lyon dismissed both openers before the seamers struck towards the end of the day to pick up four wickets. The last wicket to fall on Day 3 was that of skipper Brendon McCullum. Despite fighting innings from Henry Nicholls (59), Tim Southee (48) and an unbeaten 33 from Craig, the hosts capitulated to the spin of Nathan Lyon. The latter was the show stopper in the second innings ending with figures of 4/91 in 31 overs despite conceding 4 sixes.

Thus, Brendon McCullum will not be able to help New Zealand win their first series against home soil in 26 years. However, the Kiwis have the opportunity to salvage some pride as they take on Australia in the second Test at Christchurch starting on the 20th of February.

Brief Scores:

New Zealand 1st innings 183 all out (Craig 41*; Hazelwood 4/42)

Australia 1st Innings 562 all out (Voges 239; Anderson 2/79)

New Zealand 2nd Innings 327 all out (Latham 63; Lyon 4/91)

Australia won by an innings and 52 runs

Man of the match: Adam Voges