New Zealand in control of second Test as Nicholls century grinds down weary England

The Struggle of England's Team

For all the reports that suggest Ben Stokes and the England management have brokered something resembling peace over the past 48 hours, the team being led by Joe Root in the all-rounder's absence still finds itself in strife.

Nicholls' Century Puts New Zealand in Control

On a sappingly hot third day at the Oval, New Zealand steadily moved into a position of dominance, reaching 252 for three in their second innings and leading by 352 runs. Based on the current trajectory of this second Test, Stokes will be returning for a high-stakes series decider at Trent Bridge next week.

The Impact of Nicholls' and Ravindra's Partnership

An unbeaten 119 from Henry Nicholls – his 11th Test century – and 76 from Rachin Ravindra ground England into the dirt. Come the end, Root will probably be happy to stick the captain's blazer back in the garage where it had sat for four years.

England's Fielding Challenges

New Zealand were clearly well on top after they finally bowled out England for 291 on the stroke of lunch. Matthew Fisher had been an irritant up to that point, swatting a precious unbeaten 50 from No 9. But a lead of 100 still presented the tourists an ideal platform from which to set a sizeable final target.

The Future Outlook

From there England needed to be close to perfect in the field and they started brightly, striking early to reduce the tourists to 28 for two inside the ninth over. However, despite that early promise, the afternoon soon turned on a dropped catch that continued what has been a tricky baptism for James Rew behind the stumps.