Josh Hazlewood distances himself during national anthem ahead of 1st NZ Test

The first Test between Australia and New Zealand commenced earlier today at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. Tim Southee, the home captain won the toss and decided that his team would bowl first, which was expected as the conditions were expected to favour swing and seam.

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Australia got off to a steady start as openers Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith batted with a lot of precision to get through the initial phase. They forged a 61-run stand but once Smith fell, Australia suffered a mini-collapse. They were quickly reduced to 89-4 following which the two all-rounders, Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh played a rescue act with an alliance worth 67 runs. 

The experienced Matt Henry broke the partnership by dismissing Marsh which led to more wickets but Green carried on unperturbed and is currently unbeaten on 84 off 145 boundaries. His marvellous innings have been laced with 12 elegant boundaries, helping the visitors remain in contention. Australia currently have 256 runs on the board with a couple of wickets in the bank. The Aussies will hope that the tailenders show some resilience so that Green can add some more runs from the other end. Green, en route to his 2nd Test century, could change gears anytime now. New Zealand on the other hand, will be desperate to wind up Australia's innings quickly to take early honours in the Test match.

Hazlewood adheres to guidelines!

Fans watching closely during the pre-match national anthems noticed something unusual. Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood maintained a clear distance from his teammates during the rendition of "Advance Australia Fair", Australia's National Anthem. Hazlewood's separation stemmed from his recent battle with COVID-19. Despite his recovery, the veteran pacer remained diligent in adhering to health protocols to minimize any potential risk of transmission to teammates or opponents.

His cautious approach highlights the continued prevalence of COVID-19 and underscores the responsible measures athletes take to protect themselves and others as the world gradually returns to a sense of normalcy.