LIVE: Aussies dismantled by record-breaking spell

Marnus Labuschagne has been denied a Test century by what will no doubt be one of the best catches of the 2024.

As time ticked down towards lunch, Black Caps skipper Tim Southee had been baiting Labuschagne with some wide ones.

Eventually, Labuschagne flashed at one, but he absolutely smoked it out of the middle of the bat.

But Glenn Phillips at backward point almost literally flew to take a spectacular catch to remove Australia’s last recognised batter.

“That’s a beauty for the Black Caps, and a breakthrough they desperately needed … spectacular,” Ian Bishop said in commentary.

Co-commentator and former Black Cap Craig McMillan could barely contain himself.

“Full-length to his right. That’s a screamer – an absolute screamer,” he said.

“Labuschagne can’t believe it. [Phillips] is the only bloke in the team who could’ve taken that catch,” he said.

There was a brief delay while the catch was checked, before the wicket was confirmed.

Labuschagne is out for 90, and his wicket brought about lunch.