New Zealand capped off the third Test match against England with an emphatic 423-run victory, giving their legendary pacer Tim Southee a memorable farewell. While a series win was out of reach, the Kiwis ensured a resounding triumph to honor Southee’s illustrious career.
The match concluded in emotional scenes as Southee, holding a stump in hand, led the team back to the pavilion amidst loud applause from fans. A touching moment followed when Southee shared a warm embrace with England head coach and his former teammate, Brendon McCullum. With this win, New Zealand secured the fourth position in the World Test Championship standings, while England finished in sixth.
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England began the fourth day on 18/2, aiming to chase down a near-impossible target. Joe Root and Jacob Bethell started with intent, finding boundaries and building a solid 104-run partnership that gave England a glimmer of hope. However, New Zealand’s breakthrough came through Mitchell Santner, who dismissed Root for 54. Root, attempting a sweep, misread a tossed-up delivery and was adjudged LBW after a successful review by the Kiwis.
Santner’s crucial breakthrough opened the floodgates. England’s in-form batter Harry Brook failed to make an impact, and the middle order crumbled under pressure. Wickets fell at regular intervals as Santner ran riot, finishing with a remarkable four-wicket haul. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling restricted England to a paltry total, ending the game in commanding fashion. Southee, playing his final Test, wrapped up his career with match figures of 2/34.
New Zealand’s victory was built on a solid foundation laid in the earlier innings. Their bowlers dominated the first innings, skittling England out for just 143 runs. This performance allowed New Zealand to take a significant first-innings lead, which they capitalized on further with the bat. In their second innings, the Kiwi batters piled on 453 runs, leaving England chasing an improbable target.
Mitchell Santner played a pivotal role, showcasing his all-round brilliance. He scored a crucial 76 runs in the first innings, followed by 49 in the second. His contributions with the ball were equally vital, finishing with combined match figures of 7/92. For his exceptional performance, Santner was named Player of the Match.
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