NZ vs AUS 2nd Test: Glenn Phillips Takes Jaw-Dropping Catch To Dismiss Labuschagne On 90 | WATCH
NZ vs AUS 2nd Test: Glenn Phillips showcased his exceptional fielding abilities by taking an incredible catch to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne during the Christchurch Test.
New Zealand cricketer Glenn Phillips pulled off a remarkable one-handed catch to dismiss Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne on the second day of the 2nd New Zealand vs Australia Test at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on March 9 (Saturday). The 27-year-old swiftly moved to his right as Labuschagne fell short of his century by 10 runs, providing the Kiwis with a significant breakthrough.
In the 61st over of the innings, Labuschagne aimed to guide a wide length delivery from New Zealand captain Tim Southee but struggled to keep it down. Nonetheless, Phillips swiftly moved to his right and dived full-length in air, securing the catch with one hand. The on-field umpire referred the decision upstairs to confirm the cleanliness of the catch, and it was deemed fair.
Here’s Glenn Phillips’ Catch Video:
SUPERMAN! 🦸 What a catch from Glenn Phillips! Australia are 221/8 at lunch on Day 2 🏏@BLACKCAPS v Australia: 2nd Test | LIVE on DUKE and TVNZ+ pic.twitter.com/Swx84jNFZb
— TVNZ+ (@TVNZ) March 9, 2024
Amid recent struggles with form in Test cricket, the 29-year-old Labuschagne managed to accumulate 90 runs from 147 balls, including 12 fours, before his dismissal. His departure left Australia at 221 for 8 after 60.2 overs. After his dismissal, Mitchell Starc contributed 28 runs, while Pat Cummins added 23 as Australia concluded their first innings, posting a total of 256 runs in 68 overs.
2nd NZ vs AUS Test Hangs In Balance
After Australia established a significant lead of 94 runs, the pressure mounted on the Kiwis. Mitchell Starc made an early breakthrough by dismissing Will Young at a low score. Nevertheless, Kane Williamson and Tom Latham successfully navigated the challenging period, putting up solid batting performances. The duo not only raised a commendable 100-run partnership but also saw Williamson reaching his fifty in the 36th over. Latham also achieved the milestone, contributing to their team's recovery.
However, the breakthrough came an over later when Pat Cummins induced an inside edge off Williamson's bat. Starc continued to trouble Rachin Ravindra's bat in the final stages of the innings, but luck favoured the batter as he narrowly avoided making contact. New Zealand received another stroke of luck when Alex Carey couldn't hold onto a challenging chance off Josh Hazlewood's delivery. At Lunch on Day 2 of the 2nd NZ vs AUS Test match, New Zealand stood at 134-2 in 50 overs with the lead of 40 runs. This leaves the Test in balance as the game progresses.