In the first Test of the Trans-Tasman series, Australia experienced a collapse reminiscent of New Zealand’s from the previous day, keeping the hosts in contention for victory despite trailing by 204 runs after the first innings.
From a relatively comfortable position of 81/3, the Kangaroos stumbled to 146/8, largely due to the crafty bowling of part-time off-spinner Glenn Phillips.
Phillips, aged 27, made an impact early in the day by deceiving Usman Khawaja into a stumping opportunity. However, his most significant contributions came after lunch. He dismissed Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh in consecutive deliveries before Tim Southee’s sharp catch at catching cover removed Alex Carey.
Despite Phillips’ heroics, Cameron Green, the thorn in New Zealand’s side in the first innings, remained resilient at the crease until an exceptional delivery from Phillips, spinning sharply and bouncing, found the inside edge of Green’s bat. Will Young then completed a stunning catch at short leg, granting Phillips a well-deserved five-wicket haul.
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Phillips couldn’t contain his joy, celebrating with raised hands and stomping feet, visibly surprised by his own performance. His infectious enthusiasm endeared him to the crowd, despite missing out on two more wickets due to dropped catches by his teammates. Twitter users couldn’t help but rave about Phillips’ wholesome display of skill and spirit at the Basin Reserve.
