Cameron Green Blasts Record Century in Wellington, Silencing Doubters
Australian batsman Cameron Green silenced his critics with a career-best 174 not out in the first Test against New Zealand at Wellington, breaking a century drought and setting a new record in the process.
The 24-year-old fell just short of a double century but dominated the bowling attack, facing 275 deliveries and smashing five sixes and 23 boundaries. His test average went from 32 to 37 due to this innings which is now more than Ben Stokes.
He reached his hundred just before stumps on day one and continued to frustrate the Black Caps alongside Josh Hazlewood, putting on a record-breaking 116-run partnership for the 10th wicket.
“These innings, like today, go a long way to defining careers,” said former Australian wicket-keeper Brad Haddin, praising Green’s control and dominance.
Green’s knock came after a period of struggle, failing to score past 42 in any innings since his maiden century in India last year. He had also faced doubts about his place in the batting order after struggling in the recent series against the West Indies.
“Plenty of question marks,” said former Australian bowler Brendon Julian, referencing concerns over Green’s future. “He walks up and gets it done at the Basin Reserve. What an innings.”
New Zealand great Craig McMillan lauded Green’s performance, calling it “classy stuff.”
With this dominant display, Green has silenced his critics and established himself as a key player for Australia. The team will be hoping that this knock is the first of many to come from the young West Australian.
On the other hand, things couldn’t have been worse for New Zealand who crumbled to 179 at Basin Reserve. The entire New Zealand team only scored 5 more runs than Cameron Green. Only Glenn Phillips made a fighting contribution with 71 runs.
The top order had one of the most dramatic collapse at home including run-out of Kane Williamson. New Zealand fell 29 for 5 by the beginning of 18th over and a key partnership between Phillips and Blundell made Kiwi survival possible.
