Eng vs NZ 2nd Test: England in command against Kiwis
England have taken a 231-run lead against New Zealand on Day 3 of the second Test. A 123-run partnership between James Vince (76) and Mark Stoneman (60) kept the Kiwi bowlers at bay. Earlier in the day, England dismissed the hosts for 278 to take a 29-run lead. Root (30*) and Malan (19*) are at the crease and England ended the day at 202/3.
England's top order comes out strong
England top-order batsmen have been guilty of not coming out of their blocks since last few Tests. This time, though, Stoneman and Vince stood strong against an in-form bowling attack. The duo hit 16 boundaries between them and made sure they laid the base after Alastair Cook's dismissal. Although they could not go on to make hundreds, this partnership will fill them with confidence.
Boult, Southee only bright spots
The settled duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult were once again in business. They accounted for all the three England wickets that fell on Sunday and took their tally to a whopping 27 wickets in the series.
Broad, Anderson mastery help England
Stuart Broad and James Anderson, who set the milestone of opening the bowling in Tests for the 150th time, celebrated the occasion in style. Broad picked six wickets for 54 runs and was well supported by Anderson (4/76). Anderson got the key wicket of BJ Watling (85). The duo picked all 10 Kiwi wickets. Boult and Southee did the same against England.
