New Zealand seize control

TAURANGA. - England toiled on day three of the first cricket Test as BJ Watling’s unbeaten century put New Zealand in control yesterday.

Only two wickets fell all day as the Black Caps closed 41 runs ahead on 394-6, having begun 209 behind.

Joe Root dismissed Henry Nicholls lbw in the morning session, but afterwards Watling and Colin de Grandhomme put on 119 in an excellent 39-over stand.

De Grandhomme was brilliantly caught by Dom Sibley for 65 off Ben Stokes, but Watling batted all day for 119 not out. He was dropped on 31 by Stokes, but batted patiently and in the evening session was supported by Mitchell Santner, who made 31 in an unbroken partnership of 78.

England began the day eyeing a sizeable first-innings lead, but their lack of potency leaves New Zealand more likely to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, although the docile pitch at Mount Maunganui showed a surprising lack of deterioration.

England have been kept in the field for 141 overs by New Zealand so far.

England’s lack of threat with the ball was an all too familiar sight for Root’s side in Test matches overseas.

As they did in the 2017-18 Ashes series, England failed to create chances on a flat pitch with little movement in the air or off the pitch.

It was hoped Jofra Archer would bring extra thrust to England’s attack with his pace, but on this occasion, he was well below his best and remains wicketless - his speeds lower than he managed during this summer’s Ashes, one quick spell aside. - bbc.com