NZ dominate England after Mitchell ton, Stokes retirement: 3rd Test, Day 4 (Nottingham)

Daryl Mitchell struck a decisive century as New Zealand moved into a commanding position on the fourth day of the decisive third Test at Trent Bridge after setting England a challenging target of 373.

Mitchell produced a superb 100 not out, while Rachin Ravindra contributed a fluent 94 as the visitors declared their second innings on 288-9. Jofra Archer starred with the ball for England, claiming four wickets, but New Zealand’s lower order added valuable runs to extend their advantage.

England began their chase positively, with Ben Stokes launching an aggressive innings at the top of the order before falling for 30. Earlier in the day, Stokes announced that this match would be his final Test before retiring from the format, adding extra emotion to the closing stages of the contest.

New Zealand’s bowlers then struck regularly to leave England struggling at 103-4 by stumps, with Joe Root unbeaten at the close. England still require 270 runs for victory on the final day, while New Zealand need six wickets to seal both the Test, the series and bring the curtain down on Stokes’ Test career.

England 354 and 103 for 4 need a further 270 to beat New Zealand 438 and 288 for 9 dec (Mitchell 100*, Ravindra 94).

June 2026.