The BLACKCAPS’ grip on the first cricket test loosened as they conceded a 58-run first innings deficit to Australia at tea on the second day in Brisbane.
The BLACKCAPS lost six for 48 in the middle session as they were dismissed for 156 in reply to Australia's first innings of 214.
Their reply lasted exactly 50 overs when Chris Martin was bowled by Stuart Clark for one, leaving Daniel Flynn stranded on 39 not out.
Flynn batted 133 minutes and faced 80 deliveries in a patient knock which set an example to his fellow batsmen.
It was evenly poised at lunch with the BLACKCAPS 108 for four, but they suffered a major setback in the first over of the session when topscorer Ross Taylor was trapped leg before wicket by Brett Lee for 40. It was Lee's 299th test wicket.
Taylor hit seven fours in his breezy 51-ball knock but it wasn't enough for the tourists.
While Flynn batted maturely, none of the BLACKCAPS lower order could stay with him.
Recalled allrounder Grant Elliott was bowled by Shane Watson for nine before left-arm paceman Mitchell Johnson took three wickets in a row.
All were caught behind the wicket to loose strokes; captain Daniel Vettori for two, day one hero Tim Southee for nought and Iain O'Brien for one.
Johnson ended with four for 30 off eight overs, while Lee, Clark and Shane Watson took two wickets apiece.
NZPA
