England tests debutants as New Zealand batsmen hold steady in second Test
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 9:06 AM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
Day two of the Test match between England and New Zealand is underway at the Oval. New Zealand has seen only Glenn Phillips establish a solid position as they face England’s bowling attack, which features three debutants and an interim captain. Sonny Baker had a promising start on day one, and Joe Root may look to him to help dismantle the New Zealand tail. England is anticipating further contributions from their new players in the middle order as the match progresses.
- •Match is currently in progress at the Oval.
- •New Zealand batters have faced challenges but Glenn Phillips is looking strong.
- •Sonny Baker impressed on his debut with fast deliveries.
- •Three debutants are part of the England lineup.
- •Joe Root may rely on Baker to clean up New Zealand's tail.
- 9:06 AMThe Guardian Sport — England v New Zealand: second men’s Test, day two – live
"Updates from the second day’s play at the Oval Day one report | Sign up for the Spin | Mail Taha Well, that was nice: a semi-normal day of Test cricket, wickets in single figures, enough there for the quicks, New Zealand’s batters able to get in … with only Glenn Phillips still on course to go big. Of course, this isn’t a normal Test at all for England, with three debutants in the mix alongside an interim captain. Sonny Baker got to show off his wheels yesterday, firing the ball in at the toes, highlighting his value on this stage after a couple of torrid white-ball appearances. He’s still got work to do this morning, though; Joe Root may well turn to him to help wipe out the tail. And then, potentially, a glimpse at the new shiny toys at six and seven. Continue reading...
Sources
External links- The Guardian SportJun 18, 2026, 9:06 AMEngland v New Zealand: second men’s Test, day two – live
Updates from the second day’s play at the Oval Day one report | Sign up for the Spin | Mail Taha Well, that was nice: a semi-normal day of Test cricket, wickets in single figures, enough there for the quicks, New Zealand’s batters able to get in … with only Glenn Phillips still on course to go big. Of course, this isn’t a normal Test at all for England, with three debutants in the mix alongside an interim captain. Sonny Baker got to show off his wheels yesterday, firing the ball in at the toes, highlighting his value on this stage after a couple of torrid white-ball appearances. He’s still got work to do this morning, though; Joe Root may well turn to him to help wipe out the tail. And then, potentially, a glimpse at the new shiny toys at six and seven. Continue reading...
- Sky Sports—Scorecard: England vs New Zealand, second Test, The Kia Oval
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