Tom Latham Remains Optimistic

New Zealand Test captain Tom Latham downplayed the need for extensive fielding adjustments, despite a string of dropped catches that contributed to an eight-wicket defeat against England in the first Test. The Black Caps let slip eight chances during England’s first innings, with Harry Brook benefiting from five of them on his way to a game-changing 171.

The missed opportunities allowed England to build a first-innings lead of 151 runs and later chase down a modest target of 104 on day four to secure a 1-0 series lead. While players from both teams found visibility at Hagley Oval challenging due to crowded grass banks, Latham refused to use that as an excuse for the fielding errors.

"I don't think it's something that requires work," said the skipper, who was guilty of shelling Ben Duckett on 23 (who went on to make 46) and Brook on 41 on day two.

"We certainly put the work in behind the scenes, training days, that sort of thing. It certainly hasn't been a continuous thing that's been happening. It's just one of those games - sometimes when one goes down, they all keep falling. We like to stay nice and level and try not to over-emphasise things."

"Sometimes, some grounds have different challenges with different backgrounds. From our point of view, we're not looking for excuses."

"We know we need to be better, and we'll hopefully do that in Wellington."

Despite their efforts, New Zealand delivered a lacklustre overall performance. After a promising start at 199 for 3, they collapsed to 348 all out. Contributions from Kane Williamson (93) and Glenn Phillips (58) provided some relief, but the fielding woes allowed England to recover from 71 for 4 to take control of the match.

Latham acknowledged areas needing improvement before the second Test at the Basin Reserve but dismissed suggestions of a significant gap in quality between the two teams.

“If we had taken those catches, the game could have looked very different,” he reflected.

He credited the team for their efforts, adding that cricket often hinges on small margins, and luck didn’t favour them this time.

Latham also expressed confidence in Tom Blundell, despite the wicketkeeper-batter’s ongoing struggles, including scores of 17 and a duck in the Test. Averaging 15.88 from ten matches in 2024, Blundell faces scrutiny, but Latham reiterated his belief that Blundell remains the best option. “Tom is our finest wicketkeeper-batsman, and we back him to regain his form,” Latham remarked, highlighting the hard work Blundell has been putting in.

Speculation surrounds possible changes for the next Test, including a return for Will Young, who was dropped to accommodate Williamson despite an impressive series in India. Young could bolster the batting lineup, but who he might replace remains uncertain. Latham, however, reiterated his faith in Blundell, suggesting the gloveman is just “one innings away” from a turnaround.

With the second Test approaching, New Zealand will look to address their shortcomings and level the series, armed with Latham’s belief in the team’s resilience and potential.