ENG vs NZ : Henry Nicholls’ direct hit sends Joe Root packing with stunning run out in 3rd Test

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England’s hopes of pulling off a remarkable chase in the third and final Test against New Zealand took a significant hit after a costly moment in the middle. With the hosts already under pressure while chasing a daunting target at Trent Bridge, a moment of exceptional fielding left the crowd stunned and handed New Zealand another crucial breakthrough.

The incident unfolded in the 19th over of England’s second innings. New Zealand pacer Nathan Smith delivered a length ball outside off stump to Jamie Smith, who guided it softly towards the gully region with gentle hands. Henry Nicholls reacted instantly, sprinting forward before collecting the ball with a well-controlled slide. Despite being slightly off balance, the New Zealand fielder released a flat throw at the striker’s end with only a single stump to aim at. His throw struck the target perfectly.

Meanwhile, Joe Root had committed himself to a quick single after initially spotting an opportunity. As Nicholls released the throw, Root desperately turned back and launched into a full-length dive, stretching his bat towards the crease. However, the ball crashed into the stumps just before his bat crossed the line. After a brief check by the third umpire, Root was adjudged short of his ground and had to depart for 18 off 17 deliveries, which included three boundaries. Nicholls celebrated passionately as New Zealand removed England’s most dependable batter at a crucial stage of the chase.

THE RUN OUT DISMISSALS FOR ENGLAND ON DAY 5:

– Joe Root run out by Henry Nicholls.– Josh Tongue run out by Mitchell Santner.

2 direct hits and both time's batsman was short to make his ground.

— Maina Singh (@Maina_Singhx77) June 29, 2026

Also WATCH: Emotional farewell as England players honour retiring Ben Stokes with a guard of honour on Day 4 of third Test against New Zealand

The dismissal left England in even deeper trouble during their pursuit of 373 on the final day. Earlier in the innings, captain Ben Stokes, playing the final international match of his career, attempted to provide an aggressive start by opening the batting. He scored a brisk 30 off just 20 balls before falling to Zakary Foulkes. At one stage, England slumped to 95/5, leaving the lower order with a mountain to climb. With more than 200 runs still required and only a handful of wickets remaining, New Zealand tightened its grip on the series decider.

The match carries added significance as it marks Stokes’ farewell appearance in international cricket. A defeat would not only bring an emotional end to his illustrious career but also hand New Zealand victory in the three-match Test series. Meanwhile, Nicholls’ stunning direct hit to dismiss Root is likely to be remembered as one of the defining moments of the contest.

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