Twitter reactions: New Zealand seize control despite Ben Stokes’ late strikes for England on Day 2 of the Hamilton Test

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New Zealand holds a commanding position in the third Test against England in Hamilton. The hosts posted 347 in the first innings, powered by Mitchell Santner‘s resilient 76 and crucial contributions from Tom Latham and Will Young. England’s response faltered against Matt Henry‘s incisive 4/48 and Will O’Rourke’s 3/33, folding for a mere 143.

With a massive 204-run first-innings lead, New Zealand extended their dominance in the second innings, reaching 136/3 by stumps on Day 2. Kane Williamson‘s unbeaten 50 and Will Young‘s gritty 60 ensured a hefty overall lead of 340 runs. England’s bowlers, led by Ben Stokes‘ 2/45, struggled to contain the Blackcaps. New Zealand looks set to dictate terms on Day 3, aiming to bat England out of the game.

England’s struggles deepen against ruthless New Zealand bowling

England resumed at 54/2, hoping to rebuild, but their innings crumbled under relentless pressure from Henry and debutant O’Rourke. Joe Root offered brief resistance with a well-compiled 32, yet wickets tumbled rapidly at the other end. Mitchell Santner delivered a decisive spell, taking 3/7 in just three overs, including the prized wickets of Ben Stokes and Ollie Pope. Henry’s fiery pace earned him 4/48, and O’Rourke’s sharp accuracy yielded three scalps. England’s innings folded for a dismal 143, leaving them trailing New Zealand by a massive 204 runs at the end of a disastrous first session.

New Zealand tightens grip with steady progress

Beginning their second innings with a commanding lead, New Zealand’s openers Latham and Young provided a measured start. Gus Atkinson’s sharp delivery accounted for Latham’s wicket early for 19, but Young dominated proceedings with a stylish 60 off 85 balls, including nine crisp boundaries. Williamson joined the fray with a masterful unbeaten 50 off just 58 deliveries, demonstrating his trademark composure. Together, Young and Williamson added a crucial 50-run partnership, ensuring the hosts maintained control. By the tea interval, New Zealand had built a commanding lead, reaching 124/2 and keeping England under immense pressure.

Also WATCH: Kane Williamson’s unfortunate dismissal on Day 1 of the NZ vs ENG 3rd Test

England fights back but Kane Williamson anchors New Zealand

The final session offered England some respite as Ben Stokes struck to remove Young for a well-made 60 and O’Rourke cheaply. However, Williamson continued to dominate, showcasing unmatched temperament and precision. Partnered by Rachin Ravindra, who played a cautious yet determined knock, Williamson guided New Zealand to 136/3 at stumps. England’s bowlers, led by Stokes, attempted to claw back with probing spells, but the hosts remained firm. With a commanding overall lead of 340 runs, New Zealand sits in a position of strength, eyeing a declaration early on Day 3 to push for victory.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

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