England’s Test cricket captain, Ben Stokes, has been sidelined from all forms of cricket for at least three months following a tear in his left hamstring, a setback confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The injury occurred during the third Test ag?ainst New Zealand earlier this month, which England ultimately lost by 423 runs, despite clinching the series 2-1.

The injury and immediate impact

Notably, the 33-year-old was forced to leave the field on Day 3 of the match after delivering a bouncer that was pulled for four by Rachin Ravindra. This incident marked the second time this year Stokes has suffered from a torn left hamstring, having previously been injured during The Hundred in August. The ECB confirmed that Stokes would undergo surgery in January, ruling him out of England’s white-ball tour of India and the Champions Trophy in early 2025.

Also READ: Joe Root returns as England announces ODI squad for Champions Trophy 20??25 and India tour

Ben Stokes reacts with defiance to 3-month cricket hiatus due to injury

Meanwhile, Stokes responded to his injury-induced hiatus with resilience and determination, emphasizing his readiness to overcome the challenge. In a passionate statement, he expressed his unwavering commitment to his team and the game,?? likening himself to a phoenix—a symbol of rebirth and strength.

The Christchurch-born cricketer conveyed his intent to return stronger, fueled by his enduring dedication and fighting spirit, concluding with a fiery declaration that underscores his defiant attitude and eagerness to make?? an impactful comeback.

“Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body,” h??e wrote, signa?ling his intent not just to recover but to return stronger.

Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!

I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt.
Ther??e’s a reason I have a Phoenix ??permanently inked on my body

See you on the field to fuck some shit up

— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) December 23, 2024

Also READ: England Test captain Ben Stokes blasts ICC over WTC points deduction after Christchurc??h Test

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England’s 2024 cricketing year ended sourly as New Zealand crushed them by a massive 423 runs in the third and final Test at Hamilton. Despite already winning the series 2-1, England’s defeat marked a humbling finish, with New Zealand delivering a dominant performance to claim a consolation victory. The triumph also served as a fitting farewell for legendary seamer Tim Southee, who ??retired after a stellar 16-year career ??spanning 107 Tests and 391 wickets.

Set a near-impossible target of 658, England’s batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure from New Zealand’s bowling attack. The margin of defeat was historic – England’s largest loss against New Zealand regarding runs and their fourth-largest by any opposition. The defeat underscored England’s struggles, as they failed to show resistance and were dismissed for just 234 midway through the fourth day afternoon.

Jacob Bethell and Joe Root shine amid batting disarray

Resuming at 18/2, England’s hopes rested on young Jacob Bethell and veteran Joe Root, who provided a b??rief glimmer of hope. Bethell, a rising talent, showcased immense promise with a fluent 76 that oozed confidence and elegance. The left-hander played late and exhibited superb shot selectio??n, driving and pulling with precision, including a commanding six off Tim Southee.

Partnering with Root, Bethell added a vital 104 runs for the fourth wicket, briefly steadying England’s innings. Root, always dependable, made 54 before a lapse in jud?gment saw him miss a sweep against Mitchell Santner, falling lbw on review. Root’s dismissal opene?d the floodgates, exposing England’s fragile middle order.

Bethell’s dismissal soon followed. Having weathered a fiery spell from Will O’Rourke, who bowled with pace and hostility, Bethell sliced his first delivery from ?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 of England’s future.

England’s middle-order meltdown and Ollie Pope’s reckless shot

Harry Brook’s poor form continued as he fell for 1, fending off a snorter from O’Rourke. The pressure was compounded by vice-captain Ollie Pope, whose bizarre shot selection drew sharp criticism. Attempting an ill-advised reverse scoop against Matt Henry, Pope was bowled for 17 in a dismissal that typified England’s reckle?ss and disjointe?d approach to the innings.

With the lower order exposed, the collapse was inevitable. Gus Atkinson and Matthew Potts holed out in quick succession to Mitchell Santner, who wreaked havoc with his accurate left-arm spin. Brydon Carse was the last to fall, stumped off Santner’s bowling, as England’s final four wickets tumbled for just 19 run??s.

In total, England’s innings lasted only 83 overs across the entire Test match, a performance that fell far short of the resilience needed against a dominant New Zealand side. Captain Ben Stokes did not bat after suffering a recurrence of his left hamstring injury on day three. ?Although a scan was initially planned, Stokes will now undergo further assessment on W??ednesday. His absence further weakened an already faltering England side and raised questions over his fitness ahead of England’s upcoming commitments.

Also READ: Top 5 New Zealand players with most sixes in Tes?t cricket ft. Tim Southee

Tim Southee: A glorious farewell to a legendary career

The Test also marked an emotional milestone for Southee, who retired from Test cricket after 16 glorious years. Although he was not required to bowl after lunch on the ??final day, Southee’s impact on the match and New Zealand cricket as a whole was undeniable. Leading his team off the field, the 36-year-old seamer bid farewell to an illustrious career that included 107 Tests and 391 wickets, leaving behind a legacy of consistency, skill, and leadership. Southee’s retirement was a moment of celebration for New Zealand cricket, honoring one of their greatest-ever pace bowlers.

England’s series win and road ahead

Despite the crushing defeat, England ended the series with a 2-1 victory, highlighting their ability to dominate earlier in the tour. However, the final Test exposed significant vulnerabilities, including a fragile middle order, inconsistent shot selection, and struggles against disciplined pace and spin. For England, the attention now shifts to white-ball cricket, before the Test summer begins against Zimbabwe in May 2024. The emergence of player??s like Jacob Bethell remains a silver lining, but the team will need to address their weakness??es to build momentum for a challenging year ahead.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Tim Southee is one? of the greatest New Zealanders to have ever played the game of cricket.

Congratulations on your remarkable Test career Tim – thanks for representing New Zealand on the world stage with such talent and honour. pic.twitter.com/qNEIAUM7yK

— Christopher Luxon (@chrisluxonmp) December 17, 2024

NZ end the series with a thumping 423 run win and give Tim Southee a great send-off#NZvENG

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 17, 2024

Thank you, Tim Southee! 🙌

Timothy Grant Southee bids farewell to the field for the final time in a New Zealand Test jersey!#WTC #NewZealand #EnglandBarmyarmy #EnglandCricket #TimSouthee pic.twitter.com/IuGDH7Chwt

— Subash Chandra (@dasarisubash) December 17, 2024

107 Tests, 391 wickets, 98 sixes, and a WTC titl?e 🏆

Thank you for the memories, Tim Southee! 👏 Go well in retirement.#TimSouthee #BlackCaps #ENGvsNZ pic.twitter.com/du243sZUM1

— வேல் செ (@vmani326) December 17, 2024

A?? New Zealand legend and one of the great fast bowler of Test cricket bids adieu

776 international wicket including 389 in Tests and over a 100 game i?n all three format format f??or New Zealand

Tim Southee get a very warm send-off at Seddon Park.#Timesauthe #EngvNg #Retirement pic.twitter.com/94ZDBFAI6v

— chalchitra (@chalchitra11) December 17, 2024

.@BLACKCAPS lose the Test series to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮??󠁧󠁿, but finish the World Test Championship cycle ahead of them: 48.21 vs 43.81.

Truth i?s both side will/should be disappointed with their middling performances: 🇳🇿 ending with 7 wins in 14 games; 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 with 11 in 22.

— Michael Appleton (@michelappleton) December 17, 2024

Seeing a great off in style!

Mitch Santner (4-85), Tim Southee (2-34), Matt Henry (2-62) and Will O’Rourke (1-37) leading the final innings with the ball. Catch up on all scores | //t.co/gATDuNhj6S 📲 #NZvENG #CricketNation 📸 pic.twitter.com/xbGBqMTMAe

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) December 17, 2024

Beaten in Hamilton, ??but we come away with a 2-1 series victory.

Our first against the Black Caps in New Zealand since 2008. Well played, lads 👏 pic.twitter.com/biUdAmrp4c

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) December 17, 2024

– 391 Test wickets.
– 98 Test sixes.
– 7 fifties.
– 15 five wicket hauls.

HAPPY RETIREMENT, TIM SOUTHEE. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/AYZAcbKXWq

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 17, 2024

THANK YOU, TIM SOUTHEE….!!!!

– End of an iconic Test career, one of the Greats of Modern Era. 🙇 pic.twitter.com/CjCqvz4q5Y

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 17, 2024

Also READ: Fans go gaga as New Zealand’s Kane Williamson shines with 33rd century ?on Day 3 of the final T??est against England

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Day 3 of the Hamilton Test between New Zealand and England showcased the home side’s dominance as they tightened their grip on the match. After declaring their second innings at a mammoth 453/7, New Zealand set England a near-impossi?ble target of 658 runs.

Kane Williamson’s sublime century, combined with New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, left England reeling at 18/2 by stumps. The early dismissals of Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett highlighted England’s struggles against a potent bowling unit on a deterio??rating surface. With two days remaining, Ne??w Zealand are in complete control, while England faces an uphill battle to avoid a crushing defeat. Here’s an in-depth look at the key moments from Day 3.

Kane Williamson’s batting masterclass

Williamson was the architect of New Zealand’s commanding position, cr??afting a flawless 156 off 204 deliveries. His innings was a clinic in patience, technique, and precision, as he pierced the gaps with surgical accuracy, finding the boundary 20 times and clearing it once. Williamson started cautiously but soon took charge, frustrating England’s bowlers with his ability to rotate strike and capitalize on loose deliveries.

His partnerships with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell ensured New Zealand steadily built their lead. England’s bowlers appeared toothless, unable to exploit the co??nditions or unsettle Williamson, who played with serene authority. His knock not o??nly ensured a formidable target for the visitors but also reaffirmed his stature as one of the finest batters in the modern game.

Also READ: Fans go gaga as New Zealand’s Kane Williamson shines with 33rd centu??ry on D??ay 3 of the final Test against England

Jacob Bethell’s efforts amidst the carnage

Despite New Zealand’s dominance, Jacob Bethell emerged as a bright spot for England with his tenacious bowling effort. The left-arm spinner claimed 3 wickets for 72 runs, providing occasional breakthroughs in an otherwise tough day for the visitors. His spell included the dismissal of Mitchell Santner, who contributed a brisk 49 off 38 balls, and Tom Blundell, caught behind for 18.

Bethell displayed admirable control and variation, troubling New Zealand’s lower order on a surface offering inconsistent bounce. However, his efforts were insufficient to prevent the Black Caps from amassing 453/7. Bethell’s performance was one of the few positives for England in an innings where their bowlers collectively l??acked penetration and consistency.

England’s top-order collapse

England’s response to the daunting target began disastrously, with the top order crumbling under New Zealand’s disciplined attack. Crawley was the first to fall, trapped lbw by Matt Henry for just 5 runs. Duckett followed soon after, bowled by a peach of a delivery from Tim Southee for 4. B?oth dismissals hig??hlighted England’s inability to handle the swing and seam movement extracted by New Zealand’s pacers.

With the scoreboard reading 18/2 at stumps, England is already staring down the barrel. The responsibility now falls on experienced campaigners like Joe Root and Bethell to mount some resistance on? Day 4. However, with the pitch showing increasing signs of deterioration, their tas?k will be monumental against a relentless New Zealand attack.

Day 3, Stumps

England: 18/2, need 640 runs to win 🏏#Cricket #NZvENG #Newzealandcricket pic.twitter.com/rIwZcQp7Cs

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 16, 2024

Also READ: NZ vs ENG?: Tim Southee surpasses Jacques Kallis�?sixes tall?y in Test cricket

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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 c?ontrol. By the tea interval, New Zealand had built a commanding lead, reach?ing 124/2 and keeping England under immense pressure.

Also WATCH: Kane Williamson?’s unfortunate dismissal on Day 1 of t??he 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, Ne??w Zealand sits in a position of strength, eyeing a declaration early on Day 3 to push for victory.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

A 340-run lead at Stumps on Day 2 in Kirikiriroa – Hamilton. Half centuries for Will Young (60) and Kane Williamson (50*) helping push the lead towards 350 after a strong team performance in the field earlier in the day. Catch up on all scores | //t.co/gATDuNhj6S 📲 #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/gKQiiA34eD

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) December 15, 2024

Poor day for Eng. Conceded huge lead and handed control of #NZvENG Test to hosts. Tough to see how Eng can recover. End of term feel to batting performance. Similar to final Test v SL. Best teams are ruthless, even when series is won. This Eng team not quite there yet#Cricket

— MediumPaceDobbler (@MediumPaceDobb1) December 15, 2024

Through all the criticism Stead has copped and a lot warranted I want to pay tribute to him selecting Santner in this test, his presence alone has really swung the momentum of the test. Easy to criticise him but just want to give him props for that.#NZvENG

— Jamie Dally 🇳🇿 🇩🇰 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 (@DallyJamie) December 15, 2024

Would not have guessed @BLACKCAPS would outscore 🏴�??��󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 on Day 2, but t?hat’s what happened: 168/4 v 143 all out

Young’s?? soft dismissal apart, that day couldn’t have gone much better for 🇳🇿

Now, a couple of more?? sessions of good batting are needed to push this Test out of 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿’s grasp

— Michael Appleton (@michelappleton) December 15, 2024

Third fifty of the series and 38th career fifty for Kane Williamson 👏 #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/kin0Pmdhda

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 15, 2024

How did England got bowled out on this wicket for 143 ? Sometimes i have to think why did i got into this profession #NZvENG

— Cricket Tamizhan (@CricketTamizhan) December 15, 2024

There’s been a lot of talk about who will be the next gen ‘fab four�?but gosh there’s some exciting young bowlers emerging in Test cricket. I really, really like Will O’Rourke, for one. #NZvENG

— Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) December 15, 2024

Finishing touches with the bat, magic with the ball 💫#NZvENG #MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/cl4SaMUrRP

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2024

Gahhhh that was so dumb 🙃 Why didn't Rachin just come out anyway?! We did not need a night watchman leading by over 320 runs.. That wasn't fair on O'Rourke, he did enough for us today! 🖤 #NZvENG @BLACKCAPS #international #test #cricket #newzealand @englandcricket

— Soph’s Sports Stats 🏐🇳🇿🇹🇴 (@sophie_acklin) December 15, 2024

That's that for Day 2 in Hamilton. pic.twitter.com/TNJp3CQ0Oj

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) December 15, 2024

Also WATCH: Tim Southee receives guard of honour and standing ovation at Seddon Park in his?? farewell Test | ??NZ vs ENG 2024

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As the cricketing world gears up for the second Test between New Zealand and England at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Friday (?December 6), the stage is set for another encounter. After an emphatic 8-wicket victory by England in the first Test, the visitors will aim to maintain their momentum. Meanwhile, the hosts, New Zealand, will look to bounce back with a spirited performance on their home turf.

England’s dominance in the first Test

England’s commanding performance in the opening Test showcased their depth and form in both batting and bowling departments. Harry Brook, England’s rising cricket sensation, stole the limelight with a breathtaking 171, solidifying his place among the game’s elite batters. Meanwhile, fast bowler Brydon Carse wreaked havoc, bagging 10 wickets across both innings and earning the Player of the Match award. For New Zealand, veteran Kane Williamson stood tall amidst the pressure, notching up half-cent??uries in both innings and reaching the ?milestone of 9,000 Test runs, becoming the only New Zealand batter to achieve this feat.

3 battles to watch out for in New Zealand vs England 2nd Test

1. Kane Williamson vs Brydon Carse

The duel between New Zealand’s batting stalwart Williamson and England’s Carse promises to be a captivating battle. Williamson, fresh off his remarkable achievement of surpassing 9,000 Test runs, displayed his class and resilience with twin half-centuries in the first Test. On the other hand, Carse, with his devastating pace and swing, was a nightmare for New Zealand’s batters, claiming a staggering 10 wickets in the match. This clash pits consistency against raw firepower, and its outcome could significantly ??influence the game’s trajectory.

Also READ: NZ vs ENG 2024, 2nd Test: Basin Reserve Pitch Report, Wellington Weathe??r Forecast & Playing XI of both teams

2. Glenn Phillips vs Ben Stokes

A fiery showdown awaits as New Zealand’s explosive Glenn Phillips faces England’s talismanic captain Ben Stokes. Phillips, known for his fearless power-hitting and ability to dismantle bowlers, impressed with a gritty half-century in the series opener. Meanwhile, Stokes delivered an all-round masterclass with a crucial knock of 80 runs and inspiring leadership that steered England to victory. Both players are also exceptional fielders, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup. Their contest will not only test their skills but could also provide thrilling, edge-of-the-seat moment??s for fans.

3. Tim Southee vs Harry Brook

The experienced Tim Southee, who has been the cornerstone of New Zealand’s bowling attack for over 16 years, will face the challenge of containing England’s in-form batter Brook. Southee’s guile and experience make him a formidable adversary, but Brook’s dazzling 171 in the first Test has marked him as o??ne of the most dangerous batters in the game today. Ranked second in the ICC Men’s Test batting rankings, Brook will look to continue his red-hot form, while Southee’s ability to exploit conditions at the Basin Reserve could prove pivotal. This battle may well determine the moment??um during crucial phases of the match.

Also READ: England Test captain Ben Stokes blasts ICC over WTC points deduction after C??hristchurch Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.