New Zealand staged a remarkable comeback after being dismissed for a meager 162 in the second Test against Australia, conceding a modest lead of 94 runs on Day 2 of the match.
Marnus Labuschagne, despite being out of form, led Australia’s charge with the bat, inching towards what could have been his first Test century since the 2023 English summer. However, his aspirations were dashed when he fell short by just 10 runs, courtesy of a sensational catch by Glenn Phillips.
In the 61st over, Tim Southee bowled a wide-length delivery to Labuschagne, who seized the opportunity by unleashing a powerful stroke. The ball appeared destined for the boundary until Phillips, positioned at gully, leaped to his right, stretching his body to its limits.
With impeccable timing, he plucked the ball out of the air with his right hand, maintaining perfect balance even as he remained parallel to the ground. Phillips’ acrobatics were further highlighted by his exceptional game awareness, ensuring his hand was pointed skyward upon landing.
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
As Phillips jubilantly screamed in triumph and tossed the ball skyward, he was immediately swarmed by his teammates, leaving cricket enthusiasts on Twitter pondering where this catch ranked among the greatest in the sport’s history.