NZ sniff win as Root plays lone hand of resistance: 2nd Test, Day 4 (Oval)

Kyle Jamieson took 3 wickets as New Zealand moved to the verge of a series-levelling victory on the fourth day of the second Test at The Oval after setting England a challenging target of 463.

Daryl Mitchell led the way with 68 as the visitors were bowled out for 362 in their second innings, while Jofra Archer and Matthew Fisher claimed three wickets each to keep the chase within reach. However, New Zealand’s bowlers struck early to leave England under immediate pressure in their pursuit.

Joe Root produced a magnificent unbeaten 75, becoming only the second player in Test history to pass 14,000 Test runs, while Harry Brook contributed a brisk 58 to keep England’s hopes alive.

Despite their resistance, regular wickets reduced the hosts to 182-5 at stumps, leaving them needing a further 281 runs on the final day with only five wickets remaining.

New Zealand head into day five firmly in control and within touching distance of drawing the series level.

England 291 (Henry 5-80) and 182 for 5 (Root 75*, Brook 54, Jamieson 3-37) need 281 more runs to beat New Zealand 391 (Phillips 101) and 362 (Nicholls 121).

June 2026.