of England Expected to achieve remarkable target in the third and final Test against new zealand A costly moment followed by a crucial blow in the middle. With the hosts already under pressure chasing a tough target at Trent Bridge, a moment of exceptional fielding astounded the crowd and gave New Zealand another vital breakthrough.
Sensational direct hit from Henry Nicholls catches Joe Root at short.
This incident came to light in the 19th over of England’s second innings. New Zealand fast bowler nathan smith A length ball bowled outside the off stump. jamie smithWho slowly guided it towards the street area with gentle hands. henry nichols Responded quickly, moving quickly before collecting the ball with a well-controlled slide. Despite being slightly off balance, the New Zealand fielder issued a flat throw at the striker’s end, with only one stump to aim for. His throw hit the target exactly.
During this time, Joe Root Had initially committed myself to taking a quick single when I saw the opportunity. As soon as Nicholls released the throw, Root turned back in frustration and took a full length dive, raising his bat towards the crease. However, the ball hit the stumps just before it crossed the line of his bat. After a brief check by the third umpire, Root was adjudged off his ground and was out after scoring 18 runs from 17 balls, which included three fours. Nicholls celebrated passionately when New Zealand dismissed England’s most reliable batsman at a crucial stage of the chase.
Here is the video:
Run out dismissal for England on Day 5:
Joe Root was run out by Henry Nicholls.
Josh Tong was run out by Mitchell Santner.2 straight hits and both times the batsmen missed their mark. pic.twitter.com/Oaa6vDdUQ5
– Maina Singh (@Maina_Singhx77) 29 June 2026
England faces defeat in Ben Stokes’ farewell test
England were in even more trouble after being bowled out while chasing a target of 373 runs on the final day. Earlier in the innings, the captain ben stokesPlaying the last international match of his career, he tried to give an aggressive start by opening the batting. Before falling he scored a quick 30 runs in just 20 balls. Zachary Faulks. At one point, England slumped to 95/5, leaving the lower order with a mountain to climb. With over 200 runs still needed and just a few wickets remaining, New Zealand have tightened their grip on the series decider.
This match is also important because it marks Stokes’s departure from international cricket. A defeat would not only be an emotional end to his illustrious career but would also cost New Zealand a three-match Test series win. Meanwhile, Nicholls’ brilliant direct hit to dismiss Root is likely to be remembered as one of the defining moments of the contest.
