Ben Stokes smashed a quickfire 54 off 48 balls to lead England's recovery on day two of the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, while Ben Duckett fell eight runs short of a century as the hosts reached 278 for 6 at stumps.
Duckett leads the charge
Ben Duckett played an aggressive innings of 92 from 112 deliveries, striking 14 fours and a six. He dominated the New Zealand attack, putting on a crucial 112-run partnership with Stokes for the fifth wicket after England had slipped to 84 for 4.
Duckett's knock ended when he was caught behind off the bowling of Tim Southee, attempting a cut shot. His dismissal brought Joe Root to the crease, who remained unbeaten on 37 alongside wicketkeeper Jamie Smith on 15.
Stokes counter-attacks
England captain Ben Stokes took the attack to the New Zealand bowlers, hitting eight fours and two sixes in his 48-ball innings. He was eventually dismissed by Matt Henry, caught at deep mid-wicket attempting another big shot.
Stokes said after the day's play: "We had to fight back after losing early wickets. Duckett played brilliantly, and we just tried to take the game to them. There's still a lot of work to do, but we're in a better position now."
New Zealand strike early
New Zealand had made early inroads, reducing England to 45 for 3 inside the first hour. Zak Crawley was dismissed for 14, caught at first slip off Southee, while Ollie Pope made 12 before edging Henry to the wicketkeeper. Root was dropped on 0 but went on to make a steady contribution.
At 84 for 4, England were in trouble, but Duckett and Stokes turned the momentum. The pair added runs at nearly five an over, frustrating the visitors.
Day three prospects
England will resume on day three aiming to push past 350, with Root and Smith at the crease. New Zealand will look to wrap up the tail quickly and gain a first-innings lead. The pitch at Lord's is expected to offer more assistance to the spinners as the match progresses.
