New Zealand has completed a brilliant 2-1 Test series win over the hosts, England, after beating them in the third and final Test by 160 runs at Trent Bridge. The Kiwis came from behind to crush England and spoil the final day of international cricket for their Test captain, Ben Stokes. Late on day four of the just-concluded Test, the ECB announced that <a href="England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after Trent Bridge Test vs NZ">Stokes will relinquish Test captaincy and retire from international cricket</a> after the conclusion of this match.&nbsp;The talismanic all-rounder, perhaps their most influential cricketer of the past decade, Stokes, opened for England in his final Test innings. He smashed a few fours and a six before getting out for 30, with England losing four wickets on the day's play.&nbsp; &nbsp;The right-arm pacer returned with six wickets in his final Test, while scoring 45 across both innings.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our match-winner. Our leader. Our Superman. Ben Stokes, you are a once-in-a-generation cricketer 👑 <a href="https://t.co/0xXZf4RigL">pic.twitter.com/0xXZf4RigL</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2071593812971942168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Stokes retired with over 11,000 international runs in 278 matches and 352 wickets across formats. Recently, he also joined Jacques Kallis in a rare club of all-rounders to complete a rare double of 7000 Test runs and 250 Test wickets, a feat often unheard of in this game. Although his final appearance failed to bring the outcome he and the team wanted, Stokes will walk out as one of England’s most clinical yet successful all-rounders.&nbsp;Read more| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-emotional-scenes-at-trent-bridge-as-england-players-give-retiring-ben-stokes-guard-of-honour-1782663322799">WATCH: Emotional scenes at Trent Bridge as England players give retiring Ben Stokes a guard of honour</a><h2>New Zealand make merry at Trent Bridge</h2>After conceding the first Test at Lord’s by 115 runs, New Zealand crawled its way back into the series by beating a rather inexperienced England team by 253 runs in the next game to level the series. Even with Stokes and Gus Atkinson returning to the playing XI, the two players who made headlines for all the wrong reasons just after the win in the series opener, England failed to click as a unit and put the high-flying Kiwis under their wraps. &nbsp;After openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway struck respective 150s in the first innings, helping New Zealand put on 438, Ben Duckett’s 113 and fifties from Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook orchestrated England’s reply of 354.&nbsp; &nbsp;Daryl Mitchell’s love affair with England and in England continued as he slammed a brilliant unbeaten 100 to put the Kiwis in a commanding position.&nbsp; &nbsp;Stokes’ retirement announcement did take away the spotlight from Mitchell’s hundred, but not for long, as the Kiwis kept England in check before claiming a win on the fifth day.&nbsp; &nbsp;Veteran Joe Root and Emilio Gay started proceedings on the final day, only to depart inside one over, leaving England reeling at 116 for six. Keeper-batter Jamie Smith tried his hand at saving his team’s sinking ship (60 off 91 balls) but became the final victim of New Zealand’s super bowling, as they surrendered the Test and series.

New Zealand secured a brilliant 2-1 Test series triumph at Trent Bridge, crushing England by 160 runs to spoil captain Ben Stokes' final day in international cricket. 

New Zealand has completed a brilliant 2-1 Test series win over the hosts, England, after beating them in the third and final Test by 160 runs at Trent Bridge. The Kiwis came from behind to crush England and spoil the final day of international cricket for their Test captain, Ben Stokes. Late on day four of the just-concluded Test, the ECB announced that Stokes will relinquish Test captaincy and retire from international cricket after the conclusion of this match. The talismanic all-rounder, perhaps their most influential cricketer of the past decade, Stokes, opened for England in his final Test innings. He smashed a few fours and a six before getting out for 30, with England losing four wickets on the day's play. The right-arm pacer returned with six wickets in his final Test, while scoring 45 across both innings.

New Zealand secured a brilliant 2-1 Test series triumph at Trent Bridge, crushing England by 160 runs to spoil captain Ben Stokes' final day in international cricket.&nbsp;

Clinical New Zealand crush England in 3rd Test to win series, spoil Ben Stokes' farewell

In a shocking turn of events, England Test captain Ben Stokes announced his decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Midway through the fourth day of the decisive Test, Stokes, who returned to leading England following the nightclub incident after the series opener at Lord’s, decided to relinquish Test captaincy and walk away from international cricket.&nbsp;England Cricket’s social media handles broke this news on Sunday evening (Jun 28).&nbsp;&nbsp;“One of England's all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match.&nbsp;Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for.&nbsp;&nbsp;We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement&nbsp;❤️&nbsp;England will never be the same again,” their social media note read.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One of England&#39;s all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match. Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for. We love you so much and wish you… <a href="https://t.co/U5grq0F0kj">pic.twitter.com/U5grq0F0kj</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2071238453598035972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The handle also uploaded a video of Stokes breaking this news to his teammates inside the dressing room, revealing the next two days, including the ongoing fourth day, would be his last as their captain and as an English cricketer.<h3>Time to say goodbye to international cricket</h3>Stokes will bring curtains down on his decorated 15-year-old international career, wherein he won the 2019 ODI World Cup at home, playing the protagonist in the dramatic final at Lord’s. He had also won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, scoring a clinical fifty in the final against Pakistan at the iconic MCG.&nbsp; &nbsp;Besides winning major ICC tournaments, Stokes’ greatest knock came during the 2019 Leeds Test, when he single-handedly won the game for his team with one wicket remaining. The drama around that finish puts him on a pedestal, enlarging his legacy as one of the most influential English cricketers of the 21st century.<h3>Stokes' Last Hurray and controversy</h3>Meanwhile, at the ongoing Test in Nottingham, Stokes is bowling his heart out, trying to restrict New Zealand, who have lost eight wickets for 234, leading by 318 runs and counting. &nbsp;However, earlier, Stokes and his teammate Gus Atkinson were suspended indefinitely for breaching the ECB’s midnight curfew. After England won at Lord’s, Stokes and Atkinson went partying in a Chelsea club, where they reportedly indulged in a physical brawl, leaving England security bloodied. &nbsp;The ECB and Cricket Regulator conducted independent probes into the matter, with both coming out clean.&nbsp; &nbsp;While that was happening in the background, the English selectors dropped the pair from the squad for the second Test, which they lost horrendously by 253 runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;The two, however, were asked to play for their respective County clubs, and while they did so, impressing all, the selectors withdrew them from those matches. Later, Stokes and Atkinson were made available for selection for the third Test and eventually returned to the setup. &nbsp;In the meantime, several reports suggested that Stokes did contemplate international retirement and relinquishing Test captaincy, only for him to come back and then announce the same publicly. &nbsp;

England captain Ben Stokes has announced a shock retirement from international cricket, confirming he will step down after the ongoing Trent Bridge Test against New Zealand. 

In a shocking turn of events, England Test captain Ben Stokes announced his decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Midway through the fourth day of the decisive Test, Stokes, who returned to leading England following the nightclub incident after the series opener at Lord’s, decided to relinquish Test captaincy and walk away from international cricket. England Cricket’s social media handles broke this news on Sunday evening (Jun 28). “One of England's all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match. Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for. We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement ❤️ England will never be the same again,” their social media note read.

England captain Ben Stokes has announced a shock retirement from international cricket, confirming he will step down after the ongoing Trent Bridge Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;

England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after Trent Bridge Test vs NZ

England Test captain Ben Stokes revealed he was 'man enough' to apologise to his teammates over his and Gus Atkinson’s curfew breach that led to their exile from the squad for the second Test against New Zealand. With both returning to the playing XI for the series decider at Trent Bridge starting on Thursday (Jun 25), Stokes addressed the media on the eve of the match, admitting his mistake but urging those with the mic to provide him space as a crucial Test looms.&nbsp;"Of course. That was one of the first things I had to do as captain,” Stokes said on apologising to his teammates for letting them down over his nightclub episode. "It's all fine, everything being fine and dandy, when it's going well, but you need to take responsibility for things as well. &nbsp;"You need to be big enough and man enough to be able to take that upon your shoulders, look everyone in the eye who it's affected and apologise how you need to apologise. That’s something I did,” he said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-joe-root-reclaims-no-1-test-batter-spot-matt-henry-joins-jasprit-bumrah-at-top-1782304573595">ICC Rankings: Joe Root reclaims no.1 Test batter spot, Matt Henry joins Jasprit Bumrah at top</a> &nbsp;Stokes and Atkinson were reportedly involved in a physical altercation at a London club while celebrating England’s first Test win over the Kiwis at Lord’s. By doing so, they also breached midnight curfew protocols laid by the ECB following the drinking controversies that marred England's 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. &nbsp;The two, however, were left out of England’s squad for the Oval Test, led by veteran Joe Root, which ended with them conceding a 253-run defeat. &nbsp;While the ECB and Cricket Regulator cleared them of any wrongdoing in a physical altercation, the two were given a written warning. &nbsp;"I understand there's a lot of questions that you (the media) probably want to ask and want to hear from me, but I hope you respect, in terms of this whole week, I'm (only) focusing on this week," Stokes said on the eve of the match.&nbsp; &nbsp;"That's where my focus is at right now... I'm here as captain of this team, and all I want to do is get the team focused on winning here," insisted Stokes, who made 95 for county side Durham last week. &nbsp;"We are 1-1 in a three-match series, and this week is massive for the team,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, England was also docked 12 WTC points for maintaining the slow over rate against New Zealand in the second Test. They are currently seventh on the table with four wins and seven losses in 12 contested matches in the ongoing 2025-27 cycle.&nbsp;

England captain Ben Stokes takes full responsibility for his midnight curfew breach, declaring he was "man enough" to look his teammates in the eye and apologise.


England Test captain Ben Stokes revealed he was 'man enough' to apologise to his teammates over his and Gus Atkinson’s curfew breach that led to their exile from the squad for the second Test against New Zealand. With both returning to the playing XI for the series decider at Trent Bridge starting on Thursday (Jun 25), Stokes addressed the media on the eve of the match, admitting his mistake but urging those with the mic to provide him space as a crucial Test looms. "Of course. That was one of the first things I had to do as captain,” Stokes said on apologising to his teammates for letting them down over his nightclub episode. "It's all fine, everything being fine and dandy, when it's going well, but you need to take responsibility for things as well. "You need to be big enough and man enough to be able to take that upon your shoulders, look everyone in the eye who it's affected and apologise how you need to apologise. That’s something I did,” he said. Also read | ICC Rankings: Joe Root reclaims no.1 Test batter spot, Matt Henry joins Jasprit Bumrah at top Stokes and Atkinson were reportedly involved in a physical altercation at a London club while celebrating England’s first Test win over the Kiwis at Lord’s. By doing so, they also breached midnight curfew protocols laid by the ECB following the drinking controversies that marred England's 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. The two, however, were left out of England’s squad for the Oval Test, led by veteran Joe Root, which ended with them conceding a 253-run defeat. While the ECB and Cricket Regulator cleared them of any wrongdoing in a physical altercation, the two were given a written warning. "I understand there's a lot of questions that you (the media) probably want to ask and want to hear from me, but I hope you respect, in terms of this whole week, I'm (only) focusing on this week," Stokes said on the eve of the match. "That's where my focus is at right now... I'm here as captain of this team, and all I want to do is get the team focused on winning here," insisted Stokes, who made 95 for county side Durham last week. "We are 1-1 in a three-match series, and this week is massive for the team,” he continued. Meanwhile, England was also docked 12 WTC points for maintaining the slow over rate against New Zealand in the second Test. They are currently seventh on the table with four wins and seven losses in 12 contested matches in the ongoing 2025-27 cycle.

England captain Ben Stokes takes full responsibility for his midnight curfew breach, declaring he was "man enough" to look his teammates in the eye and apologise.

Ben Stokes: I was ‘Man Enough’ to apologise to my teammates after curfew breach

England romped past New Zealand in the third and final Test on Monday evening (June 27) to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions. Kane Williamson &amp; Co. competed in every game and were even ahead by some&nbsp;distance on several occasions during the series, however, they failed to seize the momentum and make the most of it as Ben Stokes-led England's gung-ho approach resulted in a 3-0 win for the hosts.

Resuming Day 5&nbsp;at 183-5 in pursuit of 296, after a delayed start due to rain, England lost Ollie Pope for 82 before Joe Root's unbeaten 86 and Jonny Bairstow's electrifying 71 not out, off 44 deliveries, propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win with over a session's play to spare. Following the win, the Kiwi players shook hands with the two English batters and former skipper Root won hearts with his fitting gesture towards NZ's star batter Daryl Mitchell. Here's the video:

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Root making sure Mitchell gets a stump 🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/T1vdflbhgp">pic.twitter.com/T1vdflbhgp</a>
— England’s Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy/status/1541421730446675971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-ben-stokes-england-whitewash-new-zealand-492364">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Ben Stokes' England whitewash New Zealand</a>

Mitchell was the&nbsp;best batter throughout the series, who bailed the Black Caps&nbsp;out of crisis in each and every Test and slammed three tons on the trot. He amassed&nbsp;538 runs (most by any) in three Tests, comprising three&nbsp;hundreds and two half-centuries, and was his side's Player-of-the-Series. Thus, Root -- who also was in fine form&nbsp;and ended with 396&nbsp;runs with two tons -- lauded him via his fitting gesture and won hearts.

After the series win, Stokes told at the post-match presentation, "It's gone really well. To walk away with 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a special start. When I took over this job, it was about changing the mindset of the guys towards Test cricket, was about having fun. Huge amount of credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge was fantastic. Being 55/6 and to do what we did the manner we did (here), that was something special. Pottsy has taken it like fish to water. This game, he's been incredible. Broady, even at 36, bowled 50 overs this week. I wanted to push the lads to see what they were capable of. Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets. I have never seen a happier dressing room for an individual's success. Different opposition (India), we still have a series to draw. We'll come out with exactly the same mindset."

England romped past New Zealand in the third and final Test on Monday evening (June 27) to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions. Kane Williamson & Co.

England romped past New Zealand in the third and final Test on Monday evening (June 27) to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions. Kane Williamson & Co. competed in every game and were even ahead by some distance on several occasions during the series, however, they failed to seize the momentum and make the most of it as Ben Stokes-led England's gung-ho approach resulted in a 3-0 win for the hosts. Resuming Day 5 at 183-5 in pursuit of 296, after a delayed start due to rain, England lost Ollie Pope for 82 before Joe Root's unbeaten 86 and Jonny Bairstow's electrifying 71 not out, off 44 deliveries, propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win with over a session's play to spare. Following the win, the Kiwi players shook hands with the two English batters and former skipper Root won hearts with his fitting gesture towards NZ's star batter Daryl Mitchell. Here's the video: Root making sure Mitchell gets a stump 🥰#ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/T1vdflbhgp — England’s Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) June 27, 2022 × ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Ben Stokes' England whitewash New Zealand Mitchell was the best batter throughout the series, who bailed the Black Caps out of crisis in each and every Test and slammed three tons on the trot. He amassed 538 runs (most by any) in three Tests, comprising three hundreds and two half-centuries, and was his side's Player-of-the-Series. Thus, Root -- who also was in fine form and ended with 396 runs with two tons -- lauded him via his fitting gesture and won hearts. After the series win, Stokes told at the post-match presentation, "It's gone really well. To walk away with 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a special start. When I took over this job, it was about changing the mindset of the guys towards Test cricket, was about having fun. Huge amount of credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge was fantastic. Being 55/6 and to do what we did the manner we did (here), that was something special. Pottsy has taken it like fish to water. This game, he's been incredible. Broady, even at 36, bowled 50 overs this week. I wanted to push the lads to see what they were capable of. Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets. I have never seen a happier dressing room for an individual's success. Different opposition (India), we still have a series to draw. We'll come out with exactly the same mindset."

Joe Root hands over a stump to Daryl Mitchell as a fitting gesture after England whitewash NZ - Watch

England and New Zealand ended an enthralling three-match Test series on Monday (June 27). After already having an unassailable 2-0 lead, riding on their gung-ho approach, Ben Stokes-led England were on course for another win in the series finale after going to stumps on Day 4 at 183-2, in pursuit of 296 set up by the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis.

Resuming Day 5, rain led to a delayed start before proceedings finally kicked off post lunch. England lost overnight batter Ollie Pope for 82, off Tim Southee, but completed the run-chase without dropping any sweat courtesy of an unbroken 111-run fourth-wicket stand between Joe Root (86 not out) and&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow's unbeaten 71 off 44 deliveries.

Thus, England completed the run-chase with seven wickets in hand to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test Champions. Following the gruelling three Tests, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test Championship points table:

<img alt="WTC Points Table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f372b24a-1a53-436e-a4e5-7bf2e07cb259" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC_0.png" />

&nbsp;

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At the post-match presentation, England skipper Stokes told, "It's gone really well. To walk away with 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a special start. When I took over this job, it was about changing the mindset of the guys towards Test cricket, was about having fun. Huge amount of credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge was fantastic. Being 55/6 and to do what we did the manner we did (here), that was something special. Pottsy has taken it like fish to water. This game, he's been incredible. Broady, even at 36, bowled 50 overs this week. I wanted to push the lads to see what they were capable. Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets. I have never seen a happier dressing room for an individual's success. Different opposition (India), we still have a series to draw. We'll come out with exactly the same mindset."

The Three Lions will now prepare for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus India, in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01.

England and New Zealand ended an enthralling three-match Test series on Monday (June 27). After already having an unassailable 2-0 lead, riding on their gung-ho approach, Ben Stokes-led England were on course for another win in the series finale after going to stumps on Day 4 at 183-2, in pursuit of 296 set up by the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis.

England and New Zealand ended an enthralling three-match Test series on Monday (June 27). After already having an unassailable 2-0 lead, riding on their gung-ho approach, Ben Stokes-led England were on course for another win in the series finale after going to stumps on Day 4 at 183-2, in pursuit of 296 set up by the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis. Resuming Day 5, rain led to a delayed start before proceedings finally kicked off post lunch. England lost overnight batter Ollie Pope for 82, off Tim Southee, but completed the run-chase without dropping any sweat courtesy of an unbroken 111-run fourth-wicket stand between Joe Root (86 not out) and Jonny Bairstow's unbeaten 71 off 44 deliveries. Thus, England completed the run-chase with seven wickets in hand to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test Champions. Following the gruelling three Tests, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test Championship points table: ALSO READ | England's all-out approach results in series whitewash over New Zealand, win 3rd Test by 7 wickets At the post-match presentation, England skipper Stokes told, "It's gone really well. To walk away with 3-0 series win over the best team in the world is a special start. When I took over this job, it was about changing the mindset of the guys towards Test cricket, was about having fun. Huge amount of credit to Brendon (McCullum) and the backroom staff. Trent Bridge was fantastic. Being 55/6 and to do what we did the manner we did (here), that was something special. Pottsy has taken it like fish to water. This game, he's been incredible. Broady, even at 36, bowled 50 overs this week. I wanted to push the lads to see what they were capable. Fantastic to see Leachy taking 10 wickets. I have never seen a happier dressing room for an individual's success. Different opposition (India), we still have a series to draw. We'll come out with exactly the same mindset." The Three Lions will now prepare for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus India, in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01.

Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Ben Stokes' England whitewash New Zealand

England's gung-ho approach was on display on the final day of the three-match Test series versus New Zealand in the Headingley encounter. Resuming their 296-run chase on Day 5, on Monday (June 27),&nbsp;Ben Stokes-led hosts defeated Kiwis by seven wickets to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions.

Ending Day 4 at 183-2, England was oncourse for a 3-0 scoreline with a settled Joe Root and Ollie Pope in the middle. The duo got together with the score of 51 for 2 after NZ set up another challenging target in the series. The script remained the same for England as they recovered after a poor start and continued their relentless attack to find the gaps and keep the scoreboard ticking. Thus, the unbroken third-wicket stand was expected to guide hosts to a comfortable win.

After a delayed start to Day 5,&nbsp;due to rain, England lost Pope for 82. Despite losing the right-hander as he was nearing a triple-figure score, Root got Jonny Bairstow's company as the two found the gaps with ease and the runs kept flowing in at regular intervals. Bairstow (71 not out off 44 deliveries) slammed the second-fastest fifty by an Englishman in whites and Root remained unbeaten on 86 as England completed a whitewash.

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Talking about the contest, Kiwis had opted to bat first and rode on Daryl Mitchell's third consecutive ton of the series to post 329. With England reduced to 55 for 6, the visitors fancied their chances of attaining a healthy lead but Bairstow's stroke-filled 162, off 157 balls, and all-rounder Craig Overton's 97 propelled the Three Lions to 360 all-out, leading by 31 runs.

Tom Latham's 76, captain Kane Williamson's 48, Mitchell's 56 and keeper-batter Tom Blundell's 88 helped NZ post 326 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 296-run target. Despite having a competitive total to defend, the Black Caps&nbsp;faltered yet again and failed to run through England's middle and lower order, as was the case&nbsp;in the opening two games.

Lack of runs from their top-order and having no answers to England's all-out approach with the bat resulted in Kiwis' downfall in each and every game, despite them being on top on various occasions. Stokes &amp; Co. will now gear up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus India, in Edgbaston, which commences on July 01. The Brendon McCullum-Stokes pair will be eager to prevent India from winning the incomplete five-match series, where they have conceded an unassailable lead to Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., and end it with a 2-2 scoreline.

England's gung-ho approach was on display on the final day of the three-match Test series versus New Zealand in the Headingley encounter. Resuming their 296-run chase on Day 5, on Monday (June 27), Ben Stokes-led hosts defeated Kiwis by seven wickets to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions.

England's gung-ho approach was on display on the final day of the three-match Test series versus New Zealand in the Headingley encounter. Resuming their 296-run chase on Day 5, on Monday (June 27), Ben Stokes-led hosts defeated Kiwis by seven wickets to inflict a series whitewash over the World Test champions. Ending Day 4 at 183-2, England was oncourse for a 3-0 scoreline with a settled Joe Root and Ollie Pope in the middle. The duo got together with the score of 51 for 2 after NZ set up another challenging target in the series. The script remained the same for England as they recovered after a poor start and continued their relentless attack to find the gaps and keep the scoreboard ticking. Thus, the unbroken third-wicket stand was expected to guide hosts to a comfortable win. After a delayed start to Day 5, due to rain, England lost Pope for 82. Despite losing the right-hander as he was nearing a triple-figure score, Root got Jonny Bairstow's company as the two found the gaps with ease and the runs kept flowing in at regular intervals. Bairstow (71 not out off 44 deliveries) slammed the second-fastest fifty by an Englishman in whites and Root remained unbeaten on 86 as England completed a whitewash. ALSO READ | England white-ball skipper Eoin Morgan contemplating international retirement before India series: Report Talking about the contest, Kiwis had opted to bat first and rode on Daryl Mitchell's third consecutive ton of the series to post 329. With England reduced to 55 for 6, the visitors fancied their chances of attaining a healthy lead but Bairstow's stroke-filled 162, off 157 balls, and all-rounder Craig Overton's 97 propelled the Three Lions to 360 all-out, leading by 31 runs. Tom Latham's 76, captain Kane Williamson's 48, Mitchell's 56 and keeper-batter Tom Blundell's 88 helped NZ post 326 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 296-run target. Despite having a competitive total to defend, the Black Caps faltered yet again and failed to run through England's middle and lower order, as was the case in the opening two games. Lack of runs from their top-order and having no answers to England's all-out approach with the bat resulted in Kiwis' downfall in each and every game, despite them being on top on various occasions. Stokes & Co. will now gear up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus India, in Edgbaston, which commences on July 01. The Brendon McCullum-Stokes pair will be eager to prevent India from winning the incomplete five-match series, where they have conceded an unassailable lead to Rohit Sharma & Co., and end it with a 2-2 scoreline.

England's all-out approach results in series whitewash over New Zealand, win 3rd Test by 7 wickets

New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at&nbsp;Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series.&nbsp;

Mitchell had slammed a ton in the second innings of the opening Test, at Lord's, and scored a century in the first innings of the second Test before repeating his heroics in NZ's first essay in the final Test. after Kane Williamson &amp; Co. opted to bat first. With Kiwis reeling at 123-5, the onus once again fell on Mitchell-Tom Blundell as the duo stitched yet another century-stand -- third on the trot -- to bail NZ out of a crisis. While keeper-batter Blundell fell for a well-made 55, Mitchell registered his fourth ton overall, the third of the series.

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By virtue of another triple-figure knock, the 31-year-old Mitchell joined an elite list of cricketers. The right-hander is now&nbsp;only the fourth player in the 21st century to score three back-to-back Test centuries as an overseas player on a tour of England. In this way, the star NZ player has joined Rahul Dravid (2002, 2011), Mohammad Yusuf (2006) and Steve Smith (2019) in an elite list of batters to have achieved this rare feat.

In addition, Mitchell&nbsp;became the first Kiwi player in 73 years to score in excess of 400 runs in a Test series against England. Courtesy of his impressive 109, NZ were all-out for 329 and have now dismissed half of the English side for 55&nbsp;as&nbsp;hosts are in a spot of bother.&nbsp;

Will Williamson &amp; Co. salvage some pride and win the final Test? Only time will tell...

New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series.

New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series. Mitchell had slammed a ton in the second innings of the opening Test, at Lord's, and scored a century in the first innings of the second Test before repeating his heroics in NZ's first essay in the final Test. after Kane Williamson & Co. opted to bat first. With Kiwis reeling at 123-5, the onus once again fell on Mitchell-Tom Blundell as the duo stitched yet another century-stand -- third on the trot -- to bail NZ out of a crisis. While keeper-batter Blundell fell for a well-made 55, Mitchell registered his fourth ton overall, the third of the series. ALSO READ | WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game By virtue of another triple-figure knock, the 31-year-old Mitchell joined an elite list of cricketers. The right-hander is now only the fourth player in the 21st century to score three back-to-back Test centuries as an overseas player on a tour of England. In this way, the star NZ player has joined Rahul Dravid (2002, 2011), Mohammad Yusuf (2006) and Steve Smith (2019) in an elite list of batters to have achieved this rare feat. In addition, Mitchell became the first Kiwi player in 73 years to score in excess of 400 runs in a Test series against England. Courtesy of his impressive 109, NZ were all-out for 329 and have now dismissed half of the English side for 55 as hosts are in a spot of bother. Will Williamson & Co. salvage some pride and win the final Test? Only time will tell...

NZ batter Daryl Mitchell's dream run continues vs ENG, slams 3rd ton on trot to join Dravid-led elite list

Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23).

England have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two Test matches. They will be now hoping to go for a clean sweep in the third Test while New Zealand will be aiming to avoid a complete whitewash. The spotlight will once again be on Root, who has been in brilliant touch for the hosts.

Root is on the verge of surpassing Steve Smith and Virat Kohli in an elite list as the two teams gear up for the final third Test of the series. With 27 centuries in Test cricket so far, Root is currently at the 17th spot on the list of batters with most Test hundreds and will need another hundred to go past Kohli and Smith, who are tied with him at the 17th spot.

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Along with Kohli and Smith, the likes of South Africa legend Graeme Smith and Australian great Allan Border are also at the 17th spot with 27 centuries to their name. While Kohli and Smith have not scored a hundred in the longest format since the resumption of cricket post COVID-19 in 2020, Root has been in sublime form and has been shattering records one after another.

Root has already scored ten centuries in Test cricket since 2021 and has been unstoppable in the whites for England. He has so far scored centuries in both the Test matches against New Zealand in the ongoing series and will be looking to complete a hat-trick of centuries in the final third Test starting from Thursday (June 23).

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Root has so far notched up 305 runs in the two Tests against the Kiwis averaging 101.67, including two centuries. After scoring 115 runs in the second innings of the first Test to guide England to a win, Root slammed a brilliant knock of 176 runs in the first innings of the second Test to help England clinch the series 2-0 with two straight victories.

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Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23).

Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23). England have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two Test matches. They will be now hoping to go for a clean sweep in the third Test while New Zealand will be aiming to avoid a complete whitewash. The spotlight will once again be on Root, who has been in brilliant touch for the hosts. Root is on the verge of surpassing Steve Smith and Virat Kohli in an elite list as the two teams gear up for the final third Test of the series. With 27 centuries in Test cricket so far, Root is currently at the 17th spot on the list of batters with most Test hundreds and will need another hundred to go past Kohli and Smith, who are tied with him at the 17th spot. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Along with Kohli and Smith, the likes of South Africa legend Graeme Smith and Australian great Allan Border are also at the 17th spot with 27 centuries to their name. While Kohli and Smith have not scored a hundred in the longest format since the resumption of cricket post COVID-19 in 2020, Root has been in sublime form and has been shattering records one after another. Root has already scored ten centuries in Test cricket since 2021 and has been unstoppable in the whites for England. He has so far scored centuries in both the Test matches against New Zealand in the ongoing series and will be looking to complete a hat-trick of centuries in the final third Test starting from Thursday (June 23). Also Read: 'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder Root has so far notched up 305 runs in the two Tests against the Kiwis averaging 101.67, including two centuries. After scoring 115 runs in the second innings of the first Test to guide England to a win, Root slammed a brilliant knock of 176 runs in the first innings of the second Test to help England clinch the series 2-0 with two straight victories.

Joe Root on cusp of surpassing Virat Kohli and Steve Smith in elite list in 3rd Test against New Zealand