Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips led a spirited recovery for New Zealand, but late wickets from Jacob Bethell ensured England finished day one of the second Test at The Oval on top.
After being reduced to 106/4, New Zealand rebuilt through Blundell’s 51 and an unbeaten 49 from Phillips. Daryl Mitchell also contributed 44 in crucial middle-order partnerships. England’s bowlers shared the workload, with Sonny Baker taking two wickets and Bethell producing a key spell of 2/8 late in the day.
Bethell dismissed Blundell and Nathan Smith to halt New Zealand’s momentum as the visitors ended the day on 297/7 after 77 overs.