Nov 30, (V7N) - England took an imposing 151-run first innings lead over New Zealand in the first Test on Saturday, with Harry Brook leading the charge with a brilliant 171. On a productive third day for England, they resumed at 319-5 and accelerated to 499 all out by mid-afternoon, thanks to a flurry of runs.

Brook, who had benefitted from several dropped catches throughout his innings, was the star of the day. He had been dropped five times in total—on 18, 41, 70, 106, and then again on 147 by Glenn Phillips. Despite the numerous reprieves, he dominated the crease, bringing up his 150 with a powerful drive down the ground off Tim Southee. His innings included 15 fours and three sixes, but it ended when Matt Henry found the faintest edge, which was successfully caught by wicketkeeper Tom Blundell.

Captain Ben Stokes made a solid 80, and Gus Atkinson (48) and Brydon Carse (33) contributed spirited cameos to push England’s total further.

While New Zealand dropped two more catches, they managed to hold onto five, with Henry (4-84) and Nathan Smith (3-141) being their best bowlers. The day ended with applause from both sets of players, as Brook's remarkable knock was acknowledged—partly due to New Zealand's improved catching in the latter stages of the innings.

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