NZ vs AUS 2nd Test: Matt Henry's 7-Wicket Haul Breaks 24-Year Old Record Against Australia At Home

Matt Henry's stellar performance concluded with remarkable figures of 23-4-67-7, playing a crucial role in New Zealand bowling out Australia for 256 in the first innings of the Christchurch Test.

Matt Henry of New Zealand (C) is congratulated by team mates after dismissing Mitchell Starc of Australia during day two of the Second Test in the series between New Zealand and Australia at Hagley Oval on March 9, 2024 in Christchurch, New Zealand. ( Image Source :Getty )

New Zealand are up against Australia in the 2nd New Zealand vs Australia Test at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval. Tim Southee-led New Zealand were packed for just 162 runs in the first innings and Australia managed to score 256 in the second innings taking the lead of 94. Matt Henry showcased exceptional prowess by claiming 7 wickets, setting a new record for the best bowling figures (23-4-67-7) by a New Zealand bowler at home in Tests against their Trans-Tasman rival.

Henry's figures of 7/67 narrowly missed breaking Sir Richard Hadlee's all-time record for New Zealand. Hadlee still retains the best bowling figures (9/52) in Tests against Australia, achieved in Brisbane in November 1985.

Nonetheless, Henry's spell stands as the second-best performance by a Kiwi against Australia in the red-ball format and the finest by a New Zealand bowler against their Trans-Tasman rivals in Test cricket on New Zealand soil.

Henry surpassed Daniel Vettori's 24-year old record, who had previously claimed figures of 7/87 at Auckland in 2000.

Best Figures By New Zealand Bowler In Tests Against Australia At home:

1. Matt Henry – 23-4-67-7 (Christchurch, 2024)
2. Daniel Vettori – 35-11-87-7 (Auckland, 2000)
3. Danny Morrison – 26.4-5-89-7 (Wellington, 1993)
4. Sir Richard Hadlee – 44.4-8-116-7 (Christchurch, 1986)
5. John Bracewell – 22-8-32-6 (Auckland, 1986)

Henry's Exceptional Spell Keeps New Zealand In The Hunt

Henry's impactful performance included dismissing four of Australia's key batters, namely Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. His other three wickets were secured by dismissing Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc.

Henry's spell has kept New Zealand in the game, providing hope for a comeback in both the Test and the series. Despite Australia, led by Pat Cummins, holding a substantial first-innings lead of 94 runs, Henry's outstanding bowling prevented the visitors from establishing an even more significant advantage.

Henry is on the verge of a significant milestone in his Test cricket career, requiring just 7 more wickets to achieve the landmark of 100 wickets. If he accomplishes this feat, he will join the ranks of the top New Zealand bowlers and become the 15th player from the country to achieve this notable milestone in Test cricket.