LONDON: Ally Robinson pushed New Zealand to the brink of defeat on the rain-affected third day of the first Test at Lord’s as England floundered at 55-5 chasing a target of 254.
Despite only 9.4 overs possible due to a series of interruptions, England made significant progress towards victory.
With New Zealand still needing 199 runs and just five wickets in hand, the Black Caps face a huge challenge with two days to go.
England had already taken control, reducing New Zealand to 36 for 3 at the close of play on the second day, and Robinson further strengthened the hosts’ position by dismissing Rahin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell in the space of four balls.
Playing his first Test since February 2024, Seamer continued his fine form which saw him take five wickets in New Zealand’s first innings. Robinson had earlier returned figures of 5/39, marking an impressive comeback for England.
Having contributed to England’s second innings 226 for 29, Robinson struck again with the ball, dismissing both Ravindra and Mitchell for the second time in the match.
The right-arm pacer now has match-best figures of 7/57 after taking 2/18 in 9.3 overs in New Zealand’s second innings. With two days to go, he is well placed to claim his maiden 10-wicket haul.
With a pitch that favors seamers and mostly cloudy conditions, batting proved to be a tough task.
The Blackcaps managed just 19 runs off 58 balls and during the staid-start morning session, Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 19 off 55 balls.
Overnight rain and more rain delayed the start of play, and a real-time game after lunch brought two wickets and three separate interceptions.
Ravindra put up a brief resistance after avoiding a couple but was eventually bowled by a brilliant Robinson.
England struck again within minutes when Robinson Mitchell was caught lbw off the third ball. Batter reviewed the decision, but ball-tracking confirmed the delivery clipped leg stump, leaving New Zealand’s hopes hanging by a thread.
England captain Ben Stokes continued to press with the attacking fielding formations, but Conway and Tom Blundell survived until another rain delay halted proceedings again.
Tea was eventually taken after 90 minutes, and as conditions failed to improve, play was abandoned at 5:29 pm.
England need five more wickets to complete victory on day four, while New Zealand need an extraordinary fightback to keep the match alive.