Steve Smith faced another setback as an opener in Test cricket when he got out for a duck after facing just three balls in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand in Wellington. Tim Southee bowled him out, forcing him to return to the pavilion without scoring any runs.
Australia, who began their second innings with a lead of more than 200 runs, faced an early setback as they lost Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne in quick succession. Both batsmen were dismissed for scores in the single digits, much to the disappointment of Australian fans.
Fans Troll Steve Smith After His Poor Show Against New Zealand
Smith was selected as the new opener in Test cricket after David Warner‘s retirement. However, his performance as an opener has been disappointing, with only one fifty-plus score to his name. His scores since becoming an opener include 12, 11*, 6, 31, and 0. Although his average rose to 60 after an unbeaten 91 against the West Indies, it is likely to decrease given his recent failures.
Earlier in the day, Cameron Green achieved his highest Test score and, alongside Josh Hazlewood, contributed to a remarkable 116-run partnership for the tenth wicket. This partnership significantly boosted Australia’s total from 179/9 to 383, making it one of the highest tenth-wicket partnerships in Test cricket history. Meanwhile, Matt Henry claimed five wickets, with William O’Rourke and Scott Kuggeleijn each taking two wickets for New Zealand.
Meanwhile, fans on social media were left disappointed with the performance of Steve Smith. Check out how fans trolled Smith:
Australia set a challenging target with 383 runs, but the hosts struggled in their second innings, getting bowled out for just 179. Kane Williamson was run out for a duck, a rare occurrence in Test matches. Nathan Lyon took four wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and others contributed.
Australia finished day two at 13/2, leading by 217 runs. In their history, New Zealand has struggled against Australia, winning only eight out of 60 matches and none at home since 1993. Australia drew their last series against the Windies, while New Zealand beat South Africa, putting them at the top of the World Test Championship points table.
