Headingley, UK – June 27 (ONLINE) England remained on top of third test against New Zealand at Leeds, with only 113 required on final day, having eight wickets in hands.
England concluded day four at 183-2, with Joe Root not out at 55* and Olie Pope at 81. They had dismissed visiting Kiwis for 326 in their second innings, hence chasing a target of 296.
With a rampant run rate, England is definitely eying to finish the game. The pair set up what promises to be an intriguing final day, with Headingley hopeful of having a packed house as they look to replicate the Trent Bridge test’s atmosphere by offering free tickets.
England lost Alex Lees to a run-out after a mix-up in the fifth over while his opening partner Zak Crawley (25) was caught in the covers off Michael Bracewell, with skipper Kane Williamson involved in both dismissals.
But Pope (81) and Root (55) steadied the ship with an unbeaten 132-run partnership as they saw off the fast bowlers and targeted spinner Bracewell, who went for over six per over.
Earlier, New Zealand was dismissed for 326 after the in-form Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell had again frustrated the hosts.
England’s momentum gained by taking three wickets late on the third day seemed to be fading away in the morning as Mitchell and Blundell continued their fine form in the series.
The pair batted through the first session, negotiated the early swing in gusty conditions and also saw off a bit of the new ball, completing their half-centuries after lunch.
But Matthew Potts finally broke the 113-run stand when he had Mitchell (56) trapped leg-before.
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