Third-Day Eng Vs NZ: Root and Stokes set up England
On Day 2, we saw Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell stitch an unbeaten 180-run partnership to put New Zealand with the lead of 227 runs. They were batting at 97 and 90, respectively, to head into Day 3 to expand the lead
England depends on Joe RootHowever, they could add 15 runs to their partnership, as Stuart Broad took Daryl Mitchell for a thick edge as the first early breakthrough on the third day. Soon, Anderson dismissed Tom Blundell with an LBW. They both got out, making 108 and 96 runs, respectively. After their dismissals, none of the middle-order and lower order could add much to the scoreboard. Broad struck twice in a three-wicket over, which also included a run-out. Valuable 21 runs came from the bat of Tim Southee, in the end to take the lead to 277.
Exception inning by Root, Lord’s stands to clap.
In response to the lead given by New Zealand, Alex Lees and Zak Crawley opened the inning for England. However, Kyle Jamieson got an early breakthrough and dismissed the openers for 20 and 9 runs, respectively. Ollie Pope got bowled out by Trent Boult. Joe Root gave an anchoring inning that England needed to chase the target by coming to bat at number four. Ben Stokes and Joe Root had rescued the hosts from 69/4 to build a 90-run partnership in 181 balls. While Jamieson bagged his fourth wicket in the form of Ben Stokes (54), Joe Root continued his inning with Ben Foakes. On day 3, England reached 216/5 with Joe Root in commanding action.
England now needs 61 runs to win the first test match, whereas the Kiwis need five more wickets to win it. If New Zealand gets Root early, they might hope for an easy run through the lower order. Else the first match remains in the hands of England.
It's cloudy on day fourth and may help the NZ bowlers.