THE SECOND TEST.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 August 1931, Page 6

THE SECOND TEST.

The result of the second match between All England and the New Zealand cricket team now visiting Great Britain would cause little surprise. It was evident when the last day’s play began that the tourists were in a hopeless position, and that unexpected resource on their part would have to be displayed if defeat were to be avoided. Added to the fact that the Dominion players were meeting the best of England’s cricketers, the “luck of the game” had also deserted them. No sportsman will complain at what constitutes some of the “glorious uncertainties of cricket” being a factor in the game, and of all those disapointed by the result of the match the New Zealand players are likely to be the least depressed. One of the reasons for the tour was that the team, and indirectly cricket in New Zealand, might benefit from experience gained. The only way hi which such training becomes possible is through meeting teams able fully to extend the capabilities of those who try conclusions with them. In country matches the Dominion players have more than held their own. The first Test showed that with good fortune, including all their best players available, they could make a very good showing against an All England eleven. In the second not only was the luck of

the weather agaimst the New Zealand players, but they were without the help of their leading batsman. Nevertheless the experienee gained is likely to be extremely valuable, and may make some difference to .the result of *he third Test match. Though last week’s defeat was thorough, it was no disgrace. The fact that the English authorities saw fit to choose so strong a team is proof that the New Zealand team has made a record which gives it the right to be treated as a serious competitor in international cricket. To have achieved that result is full justification for the present tour.