Nicholls ton has NZ dominating England: 2nd Test, Day 3 (Oval)

Henry Nicholls stroked a sublime century as New Zealand moved into a commanding position on the third day of the second Test at The Oval, building a substantial overall lead after England were dismissed for 291 in their first innings.

Despite a spirited lower-order effort that reduced the deficit to 100 runs, the visitors quickly regained control, overcoming an early setback to reach 252-3 in their second innings by stumps.

Henry Nicholls led the way with an unbeaten century, while Rachin Ravindra contributed a fluent 76 during a crucial partnership that put England’s bowlers under sustained pressure.

Daryl Mitchell also remained unbeaten at the close as New Zealand extended their lead to 352 runs, leaving the hosts with a daunting task heading into the fourth day of the match.

New Zealand 391 and 252 for 3 (Nicholls 119*, Ravindra 76) lead England 291 (Gay 53, Fisher 50*, Henry 5-80) by 352 runs.

June 2026