Smith stars again for Under-19s

Greg Smith hit his second successive century as England Under-19s fought back strongly in the second Test against New Zealand.

The Leicestershire batsman followed up his magnificent 157 in the opening Test of the two-match series with an unbeaten 104 on the second day at New Road.

Not only did Smith’s hundred extend his fine run of form after winning a call-up on the eve of the first Test, but it also carried England to 278 for five in response to New Zealand’s first-innings total of 372.

England Under-19s lead the two-Test series 1-0

Smith led a recovery from 145 for four, ably assisted by Liam Dawson during a fifth-wicket stand of 98.

Hampshire all-rounder Dawson, another centurion in the first Test triumph last week, contributed 43 to go with a haul of 5-74 before being run out.

Smith, however, went to three figures off 185 balls, having hit 19 fours during his three-hour innings.

Earlier, New Zealand added 49 to their overnight total of 323 for seven, Greg Morgan converting his 47 into a valuable 81 before becoming left-arm spinner Dawson’s fifth victim. Ian Saxelby also claimed another wicket to finish with 3-106.