NZ vs AUS First Test, Day 3 Highlights: Turning points, match analysis, stats and more

A classic thriller is expected on Day 4 of the first Test between Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand and Australia. Day 3 began with the visitors struggling to get going at Basin Reserve in Wellington as the Tim Southee-led side was all over them. The skipper picked up two early wickets but it was Glenn Phillips who stole the show. The 27-year-old, who was a part-time spinner for the majority part of his career, established himself as an all-rounder in Bangladesh and since then, he has made the headlines with his bowling.

He picked up the wickets of Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Alex Carey to pick up his maiden five-for in his career. The East London-born cricketer was elated after his fifth wicket as it helped the Kiwis bundle Australia for just 164 runs in the second innings. Matt Henry, on the other hand, picked up three wickets as New Zealand looked to be in well control of the match.

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However, a target of 369 runs always seemed difficult. On top of that, the BlackCaps lost two early wickets of Tom Latham and Kane Williamson. At that stage, Australia seemed the favourite to get the job done but Rachin Ravindra kept the hosts in the contest with his brilliant half-century. He is currently batting on 56* runs and with some support from the other hand on Day 4, the youngster would aim to get the job done and help his team win the first Test of the series.

He is currently batting alongside Daryl Mitchell, who has enough experience of playing in these sorts of situations. The focus will also be on Glenn Phillips who made 71 runs off 70 deliveries in the first innings of the match. He can play an aggressive brand of cricket and can change the momentum of the game at any stage, which will be key for the hosts on Day 4.

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Notably, New Zealand need 258 runs to win the first Test while Australia need seven wickets. Nathan Lyon has been sensational with the ball so far, picking up a total of six wickets in the match, while Travis Head has supported him well.

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