England take control in New Zealand after Brook blasts another century

Harry Brook stood head and shoulders above the crowd with a magnificent century in Wellington, allowing England to take charge on day one of the second Test against New Zealand.

Having ridden his luck somewhat on the way to 171 in last week’s victory in Christchurch, Brook was imperious at Basin Reserve, smashing 123 on a day when 15 wickets fell as ball dominated bat. England were reeling at 43 for four after being sent in and would have been sunk had Brook not taken charge of a precarious situation. He steered a counterattacking stand of 174 alongside the rejuvenated Ollie Pope (66), with the fifth-wicket pair guiding the tourists towards 280 all out.

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New Zealand v England: second men’s cricket Test, day one – as it happened

Harry Brook’s spectacular 123 and a ferocious burst from Brydon Carse were the highlights of a scintillating first day in Wellington

31st over: England 158-4 (Brook 70, Pope 43) Pope jabs at Smith and edges this far short of Latham at second slip. He gets the next ball away, back cutting efficiently to the fence.

So, this medium-term No3, who should it be?

Ben Stokes Technically suited but his brain whirs far too much in the field, even when he doesn’t bowl, so he needs a rest.

Joe Root Doesn’t want to bat there, vulnerable to the new ball and especially extra bounce.

Harry Brook Still too soon, especially in Australia with the extra bounce

Ollie Pope Far better at No6

Jamie Smith Too soon even if he doesn’t keep wicket, never mind if he does.

Jacob Bethell Too soon against India and Australia, plus he’s not in the best XI at the moment.

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Scott Boland returns for Australia as Mitch Marsh cleared to bowl in Adelaide

  • Popular quick will play his first Test since July last year
  • Marsh expected to bowl in day-night match starting on Friday

Paceman Scott Boland has been recalled to Australia’s team and allrounder Mitch Marsh is clear to bowl in the second Test against India. Australia captain Pat Cummins has confirmed Boland’s inclusion for his first Test since July last year, replacing Josh Hazlewood who is out because of a side strain.

Marsh will play, and is available to bowl, despite suffering soreness in the aftermath of Australia’s horror 295-run defeat to India in the series-opener in Perth. Cummins expects Marsh will be called on to bowl at some stage during the second Test starting Friday in Adelaide. But the Australian captain dismissed the notion of added pressure on his team after the crushing defeat in Perth.

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