Christchurch, Feb 21:
Century-makers Joe Burns and Steve Smith shredded the New Zealand attack to have Australia in charge of the second Test, before both fell in the dying stages of day two in Christchurch today.
Burns hit a career best 170, his third century, and Smith made 138, his 14th, as Australia ended the day at a commanding 363-4 in reply to New Zealand’s 370.
After Brendon McCullum’s 145-run blitz gave New Zealand the first day honours on a green, seaming wicket, Burns and his captain Smith ensured the momentum swung Australia’s way as the pitch flattened out.
Burns spent a lot of time successfully fighting off Neil Wagner’s short-ball tactic before eventually pulling one to Martin Guptill at square leg with 28 balls left in the day. (PTI)
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