Glenn Phillips was well aware that the opposition batsmen would target him for relief. He is the fifth bowler of a potent New Zealand attack and was also bowling for the first time in a Test match. He anticipated that the opposition would try to hit him out of the park, but it was precisely this mindset, combined with a few other factors, that led to his first four wickets in Test cricket. Phillips was the stand-out bowler of the day, a result that he may not have anticipated at the start of the day in Sylhet.
His reaction to his first wicket provided insight into his surprise at the achievement. Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, had already proven to be a challenge for New Zealand’s top bowlers. However, Shanto’s overconfidence led to his downfall as he was dismissed by a Phillips full-toss. Phillips’ joy at claiming his wicket was evident, with a smile on his face. He later remarked on the unexpected nature of his first wicket, emphasizing he would have preferred a much more deserving wicket for the achievement.
Phillips’ lack of notoriety as a bowler and Bangladesh’s aggressive approach played a significant role in his success with the ball. He found that he had the element of surprise on his side, and Bangladesh’s attacking approach provided wicket-taking opportunities that he capitalized on. His focus on sticking to the process and building pressure led to his well-deserved four-wicket haul.
Bangladesh’s batsman Mahmudul Hasan Joy admitted that they played some poor shots against Phillips, revealing that their intent to play aggressively backfired. Despite their disappointment, they plan to rely on their spinners to make an impact during the remainder of the Test match.
Phillips, a batsman-wicketkeeper turned bowler, worked hard to gain recognition as an allrounder. His success in the bowling department has allowed him to establish himself as a valuable asset in the New Zealand Test side. He attributes his opportunity to play in the Test side to his all-round capabilities and emphasizes the importance of offering something with the ball to succeed at the highest level of the game.
New Zealand captain Tim Southee’s strategic use of his bowlers was also crucial to Phillips’ success, allowing him to bowl in tandem with the main spin bowler Ajaz Patel. Southee’s understanding of each bowler’s needs and confidence levels played a significant role in their collective performance.
While Bangladesh has shown promise, they will need a better showing in the second innings to put New Zealand under pressure. Phillips and Southee’s commendable leadership will be key to New Zealand’s plans for taking wickets and securing a win in the Test match.
