New Zealand in control of second Test as Nicholls century grinds down weary England

Henry Nicholls hits out during his unbeaten 119 from 164 balls on the third day of the second Test. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

For all the reports that suggest Ben Stokes and the England management have brokered something resembling a peace deal over the past 48 hours, the team being led by Joe Root in the all-rounder’s absence still finds itself in strife.

On a sappingly hot third day, New Zealand steadily moved into a ­position of dominance, reaching 252 for three in their second innings and leading by 352 runs. Based on the ­trajectory of this second Test, Stokes will be returning for a high-stakes series decider at Trent Bridge next week.