England v New Zealand Test Series 2026

[sussexpob]

Really odd he should announce his retirement and then say he wants everyone to forget about it and get on with the game. Unless there's some kind of scoop on the way.

They had announced about 30 minutes before that tickets would be free tomorrow, which I guess is a move to ensure a healthy/full crowd is there for his send off. So I think its nothing more than making sure people actually know the reason, and to turn up accordingly for his last day.

Have to say, I am negative all the time about the ECB, but that is a rare classy move from them. Fair play

[sussexpob]

Penultimate partnership hurting england now

[Arthur Crabtree]

Is it ok for NZ to potentially have a big series win in England overshadowed by the retirement?

Looks good if England win.

[Arthur Crabtree]

Presume NZ going to declare soon...

Not going to let Mitchell get a ton.

[Arthur Crabtree]

Penultimate partnership hurting england now

Surprising this is happening to the new ball after how tough it was yesterday.

Hard to tell if they are using it. BBC updates have given up reporting on the game!

[sussexpob]

Mitchell is the latest batsman to get wrapped on the helmet. Thought he was hurt for a moment, but he's on his feet.... courtesy concussion check on going.

New ball 9 delivers old, and that one definitely playing tricks. Its absolutely key England do not throw away wickets early

[sussexpob]

Sears gets another screamer. And then Mitchell hit in the ribs.... in the wars, Mitch.

Still no declaration batting from NZ. Guessing Mitchell will get to a 100 then slog for a few overs... NZ maybe want over 400 if possible

[sussexpob]

NZ need the medic out again. This time its Sears who gets a length ball jump into his glove....

Serious question, but at what stage does a pitch become considered dangerous. Been 4 blows to batsman in about 2 overs, two requiring medical attention... in a game someone already left with concussion.

[sussexpob]

Sears retires hurt.... how massive could that be in this game ?

[sussexpob]

One to go...

[sussexpob]

100 for Mitchell.... a mammoth knock, should have ended the game. Declaration must be coming ?

[sussexpob]

Indeed. Target 372

[Arthur Crabtree]

Great knock considering the score when he came to the wicket, and the amount of pain he absorbed.

[Arthur Crabtree]

My vibe says England will do well to make 200 (my vibe is always wrong).

[Arthur Crabtree]

Stokes is opening. Is he going to leave the ground when he's out?