Aussies clip Kiwis’ wings to take charge

Wellington, March 1

Australia dismissed New Zealand for 179 to take control of the first Test on the second day after Cameron Green had scored a brilliant 174 not out in a defiant final-wicket partnership to drive the visitors to 383 all out.

The Black Caps lost wickets in clumps as they reeled in the face of Australia’s attack with Glenn Phillips’ aggressive 71 serving only to save the home side from deeper embarrassment in front of a sell-out crowd.

Australia chose not to enforce the follow-on but the wickets kept falling with skipper Tim Southee dismissing Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply. Australia are on 13/2, leading by 217 runs.

New Zealand are looking for only a second win over their neighbours in 24 Tests this century.

Ireland claim first victory

Abu Dhabi: Ireland claimed their first Test victory when they beat fellow minnows Afghanistan by six wickets in a one-off match after skipper Andy Balbirnie took charge in the run chase with an unbeaten half-century. Ireland, who acquired Test status along with Afghanistan in 2017, had lost seven straight matches before their win. — Reuters

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