OTD 2023 New Zealand script one-run miracle after following on

On this day in 2023, the New Zealand pulled off one of the greatest escapes in Test history, beating the England by just one run at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. In doing so, they became only the fourth side ever to win a Test after being asked to follow on, and just the second to clinch a match by a one-run margin. The victory helped New Zealand level the two-match series 1-1.

England dominated the early exchanges. After being inserted, they piled up 435/8 declared in the first innings as Harry Brook continued his rich run of form with a brilliant 186, while Joe Root remained unbeaten on 153. The visitors’ aggressive approach put New Zealand under immediate pressure.

The hosts faltered in response and were bowled out for 209, conceding a 226-run lead. Despite a counterattacking 73 from Tim Southee, they were comfortably behind, and England had no hesitation in enforcing the follow-on.

What followed was a complete turnaround as Kane Williamson anchored the innings with a marathon 132, batting for more than seven hours. During the knock, he became New Zealand’s leading run-scorer in Test cricket. He found strong support from Tom Latham (83) and Tom Blundell (90), as the hosts posted 483 and set England 258 to win.

Chasing 258 on the final day, England were favourites. Root made 95 and added a crucial partnership with Ben Stokes, steadying the innings after early wickets. At one stage, the visitors looked to be cruising towards a series-clinching win. But Neil Wagner had other ideas. Persisting with his short-ball plan, he broke the Root-Stokes stand and sparked a collapse as wickets fell steadily and the pressure mounted.

The match went down to the final pair, with England needing just two runs. In a dramatic finish, Wagner banged one in short and James Anderson gloved it down the leg side. Blundell completed the catch, and England were bowled out for 256, just one run short of the target.

From 226 runs behind to a one-run win, it was a remarkable turnaround and one of the most unforgettable finishes the game has seen.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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