Blundell and Phillips steady New Zealand after England's early blows

England struck early and sharp. New Zealand's top order crumbled to the pace attack, and by lunch on the opening day the visitors were in real trouble.

Then Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips took over. They didn't rush. Instead, they picked off singles, rotated strike, and let England's bowlers tire. The partnership steadied the ship—not flashy, but exactly what New Zealand needed after losing quick wickets in the morning session.

It's the kind of innings that keeps a Test match alive. England will have chances to pull this back when play resumes, but Blundell and Phillips have given their side something to build on.