England closed day one of the second Test at the Kia Oval with New Zealand 291‑7, thanks to Jacob Bethell’s two‑wicket haul and Sonny Baker’s 2‑63. Joe Root, standing in for Ben Stokes, had won the toss and steered the hosts into a brisk start that kept the visitors on the back foot for the mid‑day finale.

Early lunch figures saw New Zealand 75‑2 after Matt Fisher’s maiden Test wicket and a sharp catch from Bethell lifted Jofra Archer to a wicket, sending Tom Latham on. Josh Tongue and Baker then skittled two more, leaving the tourists 106‑4. Blundell’s fifty and Mitchell’s 44 kept the chase alive for the rest of the day ahead.

Bethell’s five‑over spell, backed by Archer’s short‑stuff, contained New Zealand’s scoring and left England in a tight position. Baker’s debut 2‑63, highlighted by an awesome catch of Rachin Ravindra, earned him praise from former England captain Nasser Hussain, who noted Baker’s learning attitude and potential to grow for the rest of the series and his future career at.

With rain delaying the start by 30 minutes, Root’s decision to bowl first paid dividends as early wickets rattled New Zealand. The hosts now sit at 291‑7, while the Kiwis must rebuild with Blundell and Mitchell two‑handed. The outcome of the second Test will shape the series balance for England to maintain lead and pressure opponents.