New Zealand Scorches to 315/9 on Day 1 of Third Test in Hamilton

On the first day of the third Test at Seddon Park, Hamilton, New Zealand managed to score 315 runs, losing 9 wickets. England's bowlers, Matthew Potts and Gus Atkinson, put in a strong performance, claiming 6 wickets between them to limit New Zealand’s progress.

Having lost the toss, New Zealand was sent in to bat. Openers Tom Latham and Will Young provided a solid start, putting on 105 runs for the first wicket. However, Young was dismissed for 42 runs by Gus Atkinson, and Latham fell to Matthew Potts for 63, including 9 fours.

The hosts faced further setbacks as Kane Williamson was dismissed for 44 runs, leaving New Zealand at 185/4. Daryl Mitchell (14) and Tom Blundell (21) also departed, and New Zealand’s batting line-up collapsed further. However, Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry rallied, adding 41 runs together before Henry was dismissed.

At the tail-end of the innings, Tim Southee played a quick-fire knock, scoring 23 runs off 10 balls. Santner remained unbeaten on 50 from 54 balls, while William remained not out without scoring.

For England, both Matthew Potts and Gus Atkinson took 3 wickets each. Brydon Carse claimed 2 wickets, while Ben Stokes took 1 wicket.

As the day ended, New Zealand found themselves in a challenging position at 315/9, with the English bowlers dominating the latter stages of the innings.