Glenn Phillips marked his first Test century, against England, by dedicating it to his late father, saying he believed he was watching on.
An emotional milestone
Speaking after play, Phillips said the anniversary of his father’s death was the following day, that Test cricket had been his father’s favourite format, and that he would have loved to be there. The quote was reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Phillips ended Day 1 unbeaten on 49 after surviving a fiery spell from Jofra Archer. He completed his hundred on the second morning, adding 51 more, and helped New Zealand put on 100 valuable runs for the last three wickets. He said he had faced Archer in a similar duel on a New Zealand A tour years earlier, noting that Archer bowls with great heat and accuracy.
Williamson’s influence and IPL preparation
New Zealand are without Kane Williamson, who retired from international cricket after the Lord’s Test. Phillips said Williamson often talks about players being custodians of runs for the team, reflecting his selfless mindset.
Phillips arrived for the series after an IPL stint with Gujarat Titans, where he played the first five matches before Jason Holder replaced him. He credited the franchise’s facilities and his preparation, including keeping his head still and playing the ball late, for helping him adjust to red-ball cricket and the Dukes ball in English conditions.
Day 2 close
New Zealand finished the day in a commanding position, having reached 391 in their first innings. England were struggling at 222 for 6, trailing by 169 runs.
