NEW DELHI: Paceman Josh Hazlewood emerged as the star performer, claiming a five-wicket haul to put Australia in a commanding position against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch after a wicket-laden opening day of the second Test.
Australia ended the day at 124 for four, with Manus Labuschagne unbeaten on 45 alongside night-watchman Nathan Lyon on one, after Hazlewood's inspired pace attack skittled New Zealand for 162 in two sessions.
Australia’s proceedings began with New Zealand debutant Ben Sears claiming his maiden Test wicket by dismissing Steve Smith early on.
Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green provided some resistance with scores of 16 and 25 respectively, but Matt Henry's impressive bowling display saw him dismiss both the batters and Travis Head, ending the day with figures of 3-39.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss on a green-tinged wicket, Australia's pacers found early success, with Hazlewood leading the charge with figures of 5-31, while Mitchell Starc chipped in with three crucial wickets to move up to fourth on the all-time Australian wicket-takers' list.
New Zealand's innings unraveled after a solid start from Tom Latham and Will Young, losing eight wickets for 60 runs before a resilient ninth-wicket partnership of 55 runs between Henry and Tim Southee offered some resistance.
Hazlewood's precision in line and length proved decisive, claiming key wickets including the prized scalp of Kane Williamson, who fell for 17 in his 100th Test match.
Hazlewood's dominance continued as he accounted for Latham, Daryl Mitchell, and Southee, while Starc impressed with crucial breakthroughs.
Wicketkeeper Alex Carey's safe hands behind the stumps also played a significant role, as he took five catches to support the pacers' efforts.
(With inputs from AFP)
