Australia and New Zealand are gearing up to lock horns once again in the second and final Test match that will begin from Friday at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. Following Australia's dominant win in the first Test, where they defeated the hosts by (172) runs, Kiwis will be seeking redemption and aim to level the series.

In the first Test, Australia displayed their dominance with both bat and ball. Their batting, led by young Cameron Green helped them post a formidable total in the first innings, setting the tone for their eventual triumph. Green played a whirlwind of (174) unbeaten in the first innings.

In response, New Zealand's batters remained dim, struggling to counter the relentless pace and accuracy of the Australian bowlers. Their top order in Tom Latham, Will Young, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra failed to survive Australia’s bowling attack led by Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood who both returned with four and two wickets respectively. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins also provided help with one wicket each. 

Despite valiant efforts from some of the Kiwi batsmen, like Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand couldn’t chase the distant target of (369) set by Australia. New Zealand were hoping to beat their arch-rivals Australia for the first time since 2010, but they fell short of the mark. 

Ahead of the second game, Australia announced their playing XI while keeping it unchanged. On the other hand, New Zealand mull changes considering the magnitude of this game. Will’ O Rourkee has been ruled out of the second Test due to injury. Ben Sears will replace him. In major milestones for New Zealand’s Kane Williamson and Tim Southee, both will be making their 100th Test appearances as Australia and New Zealand get into second Test.

Australia XI: Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

New Zealand Probable XI: Tom Latham, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Santner, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Ben Sears