New Zealand fail to handle Mitchell Starc’s speed

Mitchell Starc tore through New Zealand’s batting-order shortly before stumps on a dramatic day two, as the hosts gained a stranglehold of the first test on Friday. In reply to Australia’s first innings of 416, New Zealand teetered at 109 for five at the close with veteran Ross Taylor unbeaten on 66 and BJ Watling yet to score. (AP Photo)

New Zealand started disastrously when opener Tom Latham fell for a duck on the fifth delivery of the innings after spooning a return catch to a fired up Starc. (AP Photo)

It got worse for the tourists when Jeet Raval was bowled by a full Josh Hazlewood delivery in the next over for one. (AP Photo)

Australia, however, will be sweating on the fitness of quick Josh Hazlewood who was forced off the field in the fourth over after pulling up short in his run up with an apparent left hamstring injury. (AP Photo)

Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor resurrected the Kiwi innings after the early blow as the pair stitched a 76-run partnership for the third wicket. (AP Photo)

New Zealand’s captain fell to a spectacular one-handed, diving catch by Steve Smith at second slip. The dismissal re-established Australia’s control in the contest. (AP Photo)

Starc then went on to dismiss Henry Nicholls (7) and nightwatchman Neil Wagner (0) in successive balls. (AP Photo)

All eyes will be on veteran Ross Taylor, who is unbeaten on 66, and will resume the proceedings on Day 3 with New Zealand still 307 runs behind. (AP Photo)