Henry Nicholls struck an unbeaten century as New Zealand moved into a commanding position against England on the third day of the second Test at The Oval on Friday.
New Zealand closed on 252 for three in their second innings, holding an overall lead of 352 runs, with Nicholls unbeaten on 119. Seeking to level the three-match series after a 115-run defeat in the first Test at Lord's, New Zealand recovered from 28 for two through a decisive third-wicket partnership between Nicholls and Rachin Ravindra.
The pair added 161 runs in 33 overs before Ravindra was trapped lbw by Jacob Bethell for 76 late in the day. Earlier, New Zealand secured a first-innings lead of 100 runs after Matt Henry claimed five wickets as England were dismissed for 291.
England made an encouraging start to New Zealand's second innings when captain Tom Latham and opener Devon Conway departed cheaply. However, Ravindra and Nicholls steadied the innings and gradually tightened New Zealand's grip on the match.
Ravindra received a lifeline on seven when wicketkeeper James Rew failed to hold a diving chance off Josh Tongue. Nicholls, batting at number three following Kane Williamson's retirement from international cricket after the first Test, responded with a composed and determined innings.
The 34-year-old reached his century from 136 deliveries, striking 14 boundaries. It was the 11th hundred of his Test career.
Ravindra also impressed, reaching 76 from 99 balls with 15 fours before falling to Bethell's left-arm spin. Daryl Mitchell then provided further support with an unbeaten 32 as New Zealand strengthened their position before stumps.
England's difficulties would have been greater but for Matt Fisher's unbeaten 50, his maiden Test half-century. Fisher and debutant Sonny Baker shared a last-wicket stand of 53 after England had slipped to 238 for nine.
Earlier in the day, Henry removed Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue to complete figures that secured his seventh five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
At the close, New Zealand were firmly in control and well placed to push for victory heading into the fourth day.
