Cricket: Australia crumble against Kiwi pace

Hosts bowled out for 136, New Zealand enjoy 153-run lead on day two.

HOBART:

New Zealand led Australia by 153 runs after day two of the second Test, aiming to build a decisive second-innings lead after blasting the hosts out for just 136.

The Black Caps were 139 for three at the close of play. Earlier, Australia avoided being bowled out for their lowest Test score against the Kiwis with a 56-run eighth-wicket partnership after the hosts had been reduced to 81 for seven.

Chris Martin (three for 46), Trent Boult (three for 29) and Doug Bracewell (three 20) were among the wickets for the visitors.

Martin, savouring the Bellerive pitch, said he would like to bundle it up and take it with him around the world.

“It’s taken a long time to have a pitch like this,” said Martin. “There’s not much variety in pitches around the world.

“A day of Test cricket like this definitely makes people watch.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 11^th, 2011.