ENG vs NZ: The first Test match between England and New Zealand (ENG vs NZ) is being played at Lord’s. A result was expected on the third day, but rain played spoilsport. Only 21.3 overs were played on the third day. The host English team appears to be in a strong position, just five wickets away from victory. Therefore, the English team will now be hoping that the weather cooperates on the fourth day and a result can be reached.
Overcast conditions at Lord’s are giving fast bowlers a significant advantage. 16 wickets fell on the first day of the Test match, while 17 fell on the second. Rain on the third day forced a no-result. However, two wickets fell on that day as well, and now half of New Zealand’s team is back in the pavilion. It could be very difficult for them to save the match while their bowlers are receiving assistance.
Rain spoiled the third day’s play
By the end of the second day’s play, New Zealand had lost three wickets for 31 runs. The English team had initially set the visitors a target of 254 runs to win. Consequently, the Kiwis were under pressure on the second day itself. On the third day, 21.3 overs were played, during which they managed to add only 24 runs and lost two wickets. With this, half of New Zealand’s team has now returned to the pavilion at 55 runs.
Opener Devon Conway was unbeaten on 12 at the end of the second day’s play and remains unbeaten on 19 at the end of the third day’s play. Rachin Ravindra made 8, while Daryl Mitchell remained unbeaten. England fast bowler Ollie Robinson, who took 5 wickets in the first innings, bowled brilliantly in this innings and has taken two wickets so far.
England will hope for clear weather on the fourth day. New Zealand still needs 199 runs to win the match, which appears difficult for them. The English team appears to be ahead in the match and needs five wickets to win. The Kiwis will be hoping for big innings from Conway and Tom Blundell to help their team make a comeback in the match. Conway is unbeaten on 19, while Blundell is unbeaten on two.
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