2nd Test: Blundell, Phillips score valiant fifties for NZ
New Zealand have had a hard time against Sri Lanka in the ongoing second Test at Galle International Stadium. However, the likes of Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips scored brilliant fifties in the third innings which rescued the Kiwis after the fall of few quick wickets. While Blundell made a fiery 60, Phillips departed after scoring 78 runs, which has potentially delayed NZ's defeat. Here are further details.
A crucial partnership between Blundell and Phillips
NZ were reeling at 121/5 when Blundell joined Phillips in the middle. The duo showcased remarkable intent against the Lankan spinners and added 95 runs. They safely negioted the evening session of Day 3 and completed their respective fifties on Day 4 morning. Notably, after Blundell 's departure, Phillips also added 54 runs with Mitchell Santner. Both the half-centurions fell to debutant off-spinner Nishan Peiris. Meanwhile, Devon Conway (61) also scored a fifty in the third innings.
11th Test fifty for Blundell
Blundell was dismissed for 60 off 64 balls, having smoked six fours and two sixes. As per ESPNcricinfo, the 34-year-old has now raced to 1,872 runs from 34 Tests at 36. This was his 11th fifty (100s: 4). 143 of his runs have come against SL at 23.83 as this was his maiden half-century against them. He has completed 914 away runs at 36.56.
A fine 78 from Phillips
Phillips, who took three wickets in SL's first innings, departed for 78 off 99 deliveries. He smoked six fours and three sixes. This was his fourth Test fifty as he has completed 497 runs across nine games at 35.50. He boasts 131 runs against SL at 43.66 (50: 1). With his off-spin, he has scalped 22 Test wickets at 24.54.
How has the match proceeded?
Sri Lanka had three centurions in the form of Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, and Kusal Mendis in their first innings score of 602/5d. NZ were asked to follow on as they managed just 88/10 in their first outing. Santner (29) was the only one from his team to score over 15. Besides Blundell and Phillips, Conway and Kane Williamson (46) batted well in NZ's second outing.
