NZ vs ENG: During lunch break fans played cricket on the field and took pictures, VIDEO – nz vs eng during lunch break fans played cricket on the field

Sports Desk : The New Zealand team is facing England in a three-match Test series. A large number of people gathered at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on the first day of the first Test between England and New Zealand, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. A rare and heart-touching scene unfolded when the crowd was invited onto the field during the lunch break after the first session. Children were seen having fun playing cricket on the field while families took pictures together.

This unique connection between fans and the game highlighted the comfortable and welcoming culture of cricket in New Zealand. It was a perfect way to start the summer that brought people closer to the game in an unprecedented way. The official social media handles of the England cricket team captured and shared this wonderful moment which showed the joy and excitement of the fans embracing the game. It was a scene that perfectly reflected the spirit of cricket and the community it fosters.

A lovely touch from the Hagley Oval allowing fans onto the pitch during the lunch break pic.twitter.com/LEhlEEsSIK

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 28, 2024

England took full advantage of the green surface on the first day of the Test match. He opted to bowl first and took an early lead by dismissing Devon Conway in the second over itself. Despite the conditions there was not much swing in the air and no movement off the pitch, allowing most of New Zealand's batsmen to get starts. However, no batsman was able to convert it into a big score.

Kane Williamson (93), returning from injury, looked in great form and handled the innings with three consecutive half-century partnerships. Tom Latham (47) missed his half-century, Rachin Ravindra (34) was out to a stunning full toss and Daryl Mitchell (19) fell victim to a well-directed bouncer. Williamson looked set to score a memorable century, but missed it by 7 runs due to extra bounce.

Tom Blundell also struggled with the variable bounce and became Bashir's second victim. The off-spinner was the best of the bowlers, taking four wickets and devastating New Zealand's lower order, leaving the hosts losing 5 wickets in the final session. New Zealand scored 319/8 against England on the first day.