Glenn Phillips scoring his first century in the longest format and inspiringly produced one of the defining knocks of his Test career on Day 2 at The Oval. New Zealand 391 first innings total against England. Globally known for his explosive white-ball movements and athletic fielding, Phillips displayed a completely different side to his game, winning widespread acclaim from fans and cricket pundits alike for a shot built on patience, grit and endurance.
Glenn Phillips: Crisis man for New Zealand
New Zealand’s batting line-up was given a tough test after England’s pace attack found movement and bounce on a lively surface. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the visitors were in danger of surrendering a modest total before Phillips stepped up with a match-changing knock.
Instead of simply defending, a comprehensive mix of sensitive batting with calculated aggression keeps the scoreboard moving but also frustrates the English bowlers. His partnership with the lower order proved invaluable and allowed New Zealand to come out of a vulnerable position and approach the 400-run mark.
Reaching triple figures on the second morning, Phillips turned what looked like a low effort into a competitive result that could keep the Black Caps firmly in the race.
A bold response to Jofra Archer’s enemy magic
One of the most memorable moments of Phillips’ hitting came late on opening day Jofra Archer A rain of fast pace and sharp bouncers started. Facing deliveries over 90 mph, New Zealand’s off-spinner had to contend not only with hostile bowling but also with difficult visibility caused by the glare near the screen.
In an unusual but effective move, Phillips demanded sunglasses before continuing his shots. Wearing protective goggles against Archer’s fiery spell, he remained calm and didn’t let the tough conditions break his concentration to reach unbeaten stumps on 49. Returning on Day 2, he continued with the same determination and quickly completed a much-deserved Test hundred to the applause of the crowd and teammates.
Fans celebrate the remarkable achievement
The milestone drew enthusiastic reactions on social media, with supporters praising Phillips for adapting his naturally aggressive game to the demands of Test cricket. Many hailed the innings as proof that he has become a true all-format performer who can thrive in a wide variety of settings. Cricket watchers have also highlighted the importance of batting given the quality of England’s bowling attack and the pressure under which it is designed. The century quickly became one of the talking points of the match, with fans applauding his all-round temperament as much as his stroke play.
Here’s how the fans reacted:
A magnificent Test century for Glenn Phillips. Character, skill and courage. I’ve run into him a lot over the past few years in the Caribbean and in various countries and he’s been nothing but pleasant and hardworking. Happy for him.
– Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) June 18, 2026
Hundred Tests in England.
ODI Hundred in India.
ODI Hundred in Pakistan.
T20I Hundred in Australia.
T20I Hundred in New Zealand.GLENN PHILLIPS – POINT 🫡 The man who scored tough runs has been an all-format star for the Kiwis this decade. pic.twitter.com/rCv6rzcmwF
– Jones. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 18, 2026
Glenn Phillips brings up the CENTURY!
Amazing shot from the big man!
This beat is pure fire! pic.twitter.com/EIZWYsUlXO— Rehan 56 (@imrehan456) June 18, 2026
HUNDRED IN 133 BALLS BY GLENN PHILLIPS.
– His maiden Test century and it came against England when the Kiwis were in deep trouble at one stage, what a quality show from Phillips. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/wk4oP1Pm4k
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 18, 2026
FIRST TEST HUNDRED FOR GLENN PHILLIPS. 🇳🇿
– Great kick from Phillips.🙌 pic.twitter.com/zKKMrRQeeK
— Maina Singh (@Maina_Singhx77) June 18, 2026
🚨 TOTAL 133 BALLS BY GLENN PHILLIPS! 🚨
– Maiden Test century 💯The decisive blow against England in England 🏏 pic.twitter.com/QGBk4QX4g8
— Cricket Central (@CricketCentrl) June 18, 2026
Survived a brutal onslaught of 23 bouncers in the final hour of Day 1 and responded by delivering a classy HUNDRED.
Take a bow, Glenn Phillips. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/kh7roaABzi
— WeymarOnCricket (@weymarplanet) June 18, 2026
🚨HUNDRED GIRLS IN TEST CRICKET.🚨
– What a moment for Glenn Phillips.🌟#ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/W5xQsuUjgT
– Rana Ahmed. (@AhmadRana056) June 18, 2026
Meet 29-year-old Glenn Phillips👏
> Born in South Africa and immigrated to New Zealand.
> Made his International debut for New Zealand in 2017.
> Selected in 2020 NZ Test Squad
> Now today after a 6 year test debut in England, Phillips smashes his 1st century 🥹 pic.twitter.com/CmEPnpcOMK
— Sam (@cricsam02) June 18, 2026
👍 FINGER AND A TON 💯🏏
For a moment we felt like we were watching Steve Smith at the crease. 😄
Glenn Phillips produced a masterclass of grit, patience and determination to produce a magnificent century when his team needed it most. 👏🔥
All kidding aside, this is a… pic.twitter.com/inwES7jfzv
— Haseeb’s Talks 🏏 (@jabhaikamkar) June 18, 2026
Also WATCH: ENG vs NZ – Jacob Bethell makes a sensational catch to dismiss Tom Latham on Day 1 of the second Test
Join the elite New Zealand club
Apart from saving his side, Phillips’ hundred was of historical significance. Highlighting his versatility across formats, he became the third New Zealand cricketer to score an international century in Tests, One Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals.
| Format | Girl’s age | Stage / Style |
|---|---|---|
| T20I | 108 vs West Indies (2020) | Fastest T20I century by a New Zealander (46 balls) |
| ODI | 106* v Pakistan (Tri-series) | A powerful undefeated strike that showcases his attacking game |
| Test | 100 v England (2026) | Virgo Trials age is built on strength, patience and fortitude |
Already earning a reputation as a devastating limited batter, Phillips has now added a significant red ball mark to his resume. His innings at The Oval displayed discipline, technical refinement and mental toughness, qualities that could make him an increasingly influential figure in New Zealand’s Test plans.
Also READ: New Zealand have announced their list of central signings for the 2026-27 season
