The England men’s cricket team, led by Ben Stokes, gave a heartfelt guard of honor to retiring New Zealand pacer Tim Southee as he walked out to bat on the opening day of the third Test at Seddon Park. Southee, accompanied by his daughter and his New Zealand teammates, took to the field at the start of the play on Day 1, marking an emotional moment in a career spanning 107 Tests.
When he arrived at the crease following the fall of New Zealand’s eighth wicket, the respect from England’s players reflected the camaraderie and sportsmanship inherent in the sport. In his swansong innings, Southee showcased his signature aggressive style, scoring a rapid 23 off just 10 deliveries. His knock included a boundary and three towering sixes, equalling Chris Gayle’s tally of 98 sixes in Test cricket. Only Adam Gilchrist (100), Brendon McCullum (107), and Ben Stokes (133) have struck more sixes in the format.
New Zealand vs England, 3rd Test Day 1: HIGHLIGHTS
Southee’s brief but impactful innings was part of a late rally by New Zealand, who finished day one at 315 for 9. Mitchell Santner, unbeaten on 50, and the Kiwi tailenders added 76 runs in the final eight overs, rescuing the team from a precarious position after a middle-order collapse. The hosts began strongly with a 105-run opening partnership between Tom Latham and Will Young, their best opening stand in 28 Tests. Young, returning to the side in place of Devon Conway, impressed with a confident 47, surpassing 1,000 career Test runs. Latham contributed 65 in a measured innings.
However, New Zealand lost the momentum as England’s bowlers struck back. Key middle-order wickets, including Kane Williamson (44) and Tom Blundell (21), fell to lapses in concentration. Brydon Carse and Ben Stokes made vital contributions with the ball, while Harry Brook produced a stunning boundary-line catch to dismiss Matt Henry (8).
With an unassailable 2-0 series lead, England began the day with confidence, opting to bowl first under promising conditions. However, the Seddon Park pitch proved less favorable for bowlers, offering limited seam or swing. Despite this, England clawed their way back into the match during the middle sessions.
