Daryl Mitchell stands tall as Zimbabwe fight back on Day 2

Daryl Mitchell stands tall as Zimbabwe fight back on Day 2

Daryl Mitchell's 80 off 119 ensured a good total for New Zealand as they finished with 307, taking a lead of 158. Zimbabwe then lost both their openers late in the day, going into Stumps at 31/2, trailing by 127 runs.

New Zealand's innings was marked by a steady 66-run stand between Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls, but they stumbled to 181/5 after being in a strong position. Conway was eventually dismissed for 88, and Nicholls fell for 55. Tom Blundell and Michael Bracewell also fell cheaply, but Mitchell and stand-in skipper Mitchell Santner rebuilt to take the lead past 100.

Mitchell got past 50 early in the third session, and combined with Nathan Smith to take New Zealand to Tea without further damage. However, Smith retired hurt due to an abdominal tear, and Mitchell was eventually bowled by Sean Williams for 80.

Brief scores:

Zimbabwe 149 & 31/2 (Brian Bennett 18) trail New Zealand 307 (Devon Conway 88, Daryl Mitchell 80) by 127 runs.