Australia set sights on top spot in Test rankings

New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum could not repeat his first-innings heroics on day three as Australia moved into pole position to win the second Test and move to the top of the International Cricket Council rankings in Christchurch.

The retiring 34-year-old, having blasted the fastest Test century from 54 balls on day one, managed just 25 in his final innings in international cricket.

McCullum was one of four Black Caps batsmen to depart, leaving the hosts facing an uphill battle to secure a series draw after closing 14 runs behind on 121 for four in their second knock.

Australia lost their last six wickets for just 67 runs to be dismissed for 505, a lead of 135, that was boosted by in-form Adam Voges’ 60.

David Warner shakes Brendon McCullum's hand after taking a brilliant catch to end the New Zealand skipper's final international innings

The tourists collapsed at the hands of left-arm seamer Neil Wagner, an overseas signing for Lancashire this season, whose short-ball approach proved successful as he returned career-best Test figures of 6-106.

New Zealand were soon one down in their second innings, Martin Guptill edging James Pattinson behind to Peter Nevill for a 12-ball duck.

Tom Latham and Kane Williamson combined for a second-wicket stand of 58 until Pattinson, bowling with great pace, found the edge of the former.

Henry Nicholls also nicked Pattinson, who took 3-29 from 12 overs, and then McCullum, having hit three fours and a huge maximum, was brilliantly caught at midwicket by a diving David Warner after pulling Josh Hazlewood.

Williamson survived to the close and will resume on 45 alongside Corey Anderson.


Source: ECB

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