On the third day of the first Test at Hagley Oval, Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse shined for England with the new ball, helping the visitors inch closer towards a win against New Zealand. The Kiwis were trailing by 151 runs at the start of their second innings, but Woakes and Carse's early breakthroughs gave England the advantage. Despite a strong partnership between Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, Woakes and Carse continued to take wickets and put England in a commanding position. With only four wickets left, New Zealand will have to put up a tough fight on the fourth day to save the Test.
Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse Shine for England in New Zealand Test
On the third day of the first Test at Hagley Oval, Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse were instrumental in England's impressive performance against New Zealand. The visitors entered the day trailing by 151 runs in the second innings, but Woakes and Carse's early wickets shifted the momentum in England's favor.
Early Breakthroughs
Woakes and Carse wasted no time in making an impact. Woakes dismissed New Zealand opener Tom Blundell with the first ball of the day, followed by Will Young in his second over. Carse joined the wicket-taking party, dismissing Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell to leave New Zealand reeling at 20/4.
Continued Aggression
Despite a resilient partnership between Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, Woakes and Carse continued to pressure the New Zealand batters. Woakes removed Williamson for 48, while Carse accounted for Ravindra for 54. By the end of the day, England had taken seven New Zealand wickets, leaving the hosts with a daunting task on the fourth day.
Background
Woakes is a 33-year-old all-rounder who has been a key figure in England's Test team for over a decade. He has played 77 Tests, taking 226 wickets at an average of 26.36. Carse, meanwhile, is a 26-year-old fast bowler who is making his Test debut in this series.
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