Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
England vs New Zealand third Test began at Trent Bridge with New Zealand winning the toss and choosing to bat first in the series decider on a hot day in Nottingham.
The three-match series is level at 1-1 after New Zealand’s convincing win at The Oval, making the final Test a major chance for both sides to finish strongly. The conditions could matter, with temperatures forecast to reach 31C and a dry pitch expected to suit batting.
For more on the build-up to the decider, read Ben Stokes Apology Comes Before England Test Decider At Trent Bridge, while official England cricket updates are available through the England and Wales Cricket Board website.
Stokes Returns As Captain
England have recalled Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson after both missed the second Test at The Oval.
Stokes has taken back the captaincy from Joe Root, while wicketkeeper Jamie Smith returns from paternity leave. Shoaib Bashir has also been picked as the spin option, replacing fast bowler Sonny Baker.
England’s XI includes Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Shoaib Bashir.
The hot weather and dry surface give England’s attack a clear test, especially if New Zealand’s top order settles early.
New Zealand Make Injury Changes
New Zealand are without Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips through injury, while Kyle Jamieson has been rested to manage his workload after recent back problems.
Mitchell Santner comes into the side, with Blair Tickner and Ben Sears also included in a reshaped bowling group. The three have limited Test experience between them, but the toss gives New Zealand a chance to place scoreboard pressure on England.
New Zealand’s XI features Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke.
With the series on the line, the opening session in Nottingham could set the tone for a tense finish.
