Fans celebrate New Zealand’s 423-run win over England in Tim Southee’s farewell Test

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EnglandThe year 2024 for cricket has ended on a bad note New Zealand He thrashed them by 423 runs in the third and final Test in Hamilton. Despite actually winning the group 2-1, England’s defeat was a mediocre ending, with New Zealand producing a dominant performance to secure a consolation win. The victory also served as a fitting farewell to Legendary tailor Tim Southeewho retired after a remarkable 16-year career spanning 107 Tests and 391 wickets.

Set an almost impossible target of 658, England’s batting line-up collapsed under relentless pressure from the New Zealand bowling attack. The margin of defeat was historic – England’s biggest loss to New Zealand in terms of tours and the fourth-largest ever by any opponent. The defeat highlighted England’s struggle, as they failed to show resistance and They were dismissed for just 234 In the mid-afternoon of the fourth day.

Jacob Bethel and Joe Root shine amid the batting chaos

Resuming on 2/18, England’s hopes were pinned on the youth Jacob Bethel And the veteran Joe Rootwhich provided a brief glimmer of hope. Bethell, a rising talent, showed tremendous promise with his fluent 76 that exuded confidence and elegance. The left-hander played late and showed great shot selection, driving and pulling accurately, including a six from Tim Southee.

In partnership with Root, Bethell added a vital 104 runs for the fourth wicket, briefly stabilizing England’s innings. Root, ever reliable, made 54 before an error in judgment saw him miss a sweep against Mitchell Santner, falling lbs on review. Root’s dismissal opened the floodgates, exposing the fragile middle order in England.

Bethell’s dismissal soon followed. After surviving a fiery spell from Will O’Rourkebowled quickly and aggressively, Bethell cut his first delivery of Southee’s new spell straight to deep point. It was a disappointing end to what could have been a maiden Test century, but the youngster’s innings offered a glimpse into England’s future.

The collapse of England’s middle order and Ollie Pope’s reckless shot

Harry BrockHis poor form continued when he dropped a point, holding off a snort from O’Rourke. The pressure was exacerbated by the vice captain Ollie Bobwhose strange shot choice sparked sharp criticism. An ill-advised reverse scoop attempt against henry died, Pope was bowled out for 17 runs in a dismissal that typified England’s reckless, disjointed approach to the innings.

With the lower order exposed, collapse became inevitable. Gus Atkinson and Matthew Potts They dug in in quick succession to Mitchell Santnerwho wreaked havoc with his precise left-arm spin. Braydon Cars He was the last to fall, stumped off Santner’s bowling, as England’s last four wickets fell for just 19 runs.

In total, England’s innings lasted just 83 runs during the entire Test match, a performance that fell far short of the resilience required against a dominant New Zealand side. captain Ben Stokes He did not bat after suffering a recurrence of his left hamstring injury on Day 3. Although a scan was initially planned, Stokes will now undergo further assessment on Wednesday. His absence has weakened an already struggling England side and raised questions about his fitness ahead of upcoming England commitments.

Read also: Top 5 New Zealand players with the most sixes in Test cricket with Tim Southee

Tim Southee: A Glorious Farewell to a Legendary Career

The Test also marks an emotional milestone for Southee, who retired from Test cricket after 16 glorious years. Although he was not required to play after lunch on the final day, Southie’s impact on the match and New Zealand cricket as a whole was undeniable. The 36-year-old seamer led his side off the field and bid farewell to an illustrious career that included 107 Tests and 391 wickets, leaving behind a legacy of consistency, skill and leadership. Southie’s retirement was a moment of celebration for New Zealand cricket, with tributes being paid to one of the greatest bowlers of all time.

England series win and the way forward

Despite the crushing defeat, England finished the series with Winning 2-1highlighting their ability to dominate earlier in the round. However, the final test revealed significant weaknesses, including a fragile middle order, inconsistent shot selection, and a struggle against disciplined pace and spin. For England, attention now turns to white-ball cricket, before the Test summer begins Zimbabwe in May 2024. The emergence of players like Jacob Bethel still shows promise, but the team will need to address its weaknesses to build momentum for a challenging year ahead.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Read also: Fans cheer as New Zealand’s Kane Williamson scores with his 33rd century on day three of the final Test against England





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