Ben Duckett registered his first century in more than a year, while Jacob Bethell overcame his first-innings struggles as England’s stand-in captain Ben Stokes led a remarkable fightback in the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. At the close of play on the second day, England stood at 223-2, trailing New Zealand’s first-innings total of 438 by 215 runs, with the series level at 1-1.
Duckett, the opening batsman, delighted the sun-soaked crowd in Nottinghamshire with a score of 113. Partnering with Bethell, who remained unbeaten on 74, they put on a rapid partnership of 179 runs for the second wicket in just 30 overs after Emilio Gay was dismissed for a duck.
England was fortunate as Duckett, who contributed all of England’s first eight runs, was dropped by Henry Nicholls at third slip off Nathan Smith’s bowling. Stokes played a crucial role with the ball, taking 4-70 in 21 overs, reaching a milestone of 250 Test wickets. His impactful spell of 3-13 in eight overs on Friday morning triggered a collapse of the New Zealand batting order, reducing them from a commanding position of 361-2 to 438 all out.
Stokes returned to the team after missing the second Test for breaching team protocols. His contributions on the field were vital as he dismissed key New Zealand batsmen, including Devon Conway and Tom Latham, to turn the tide in England’s favor.
Despite the scorching conditions, Duckett showcased his prowess with the bat, scoring his seventh Test century in 46 matches. Bethell, known for his struggles in the first innings, defied expectations with a quick-fire 74 not out, leading England’s charge in the crucial Test match. New Zealand faced setbacks with injuries, including Matt Henry’s absence and Blair Tickner’s concussion, further complicating their challenge against a resurgent England side.
England’s strong performance on the second day has set the stage for an intriguing battle in the remainder of the deciding Test match against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.