New Zealand Beat England by 160 Runs to Win Test Series 2-1

New Zealand completed a 160-run victory on the fifth day of the third Test at Trent Bridge, sealing a 2-1 series win. England were bowled out for 212 while chasing 373. The day began with England at 103-4 after a collapse on the fourth evening. Emilio Gay was dismissed early, and Joe Root was run out by a direct hit from the fielder at point.

Atkinson added 75 for the eighth wicket before Atkinson fell just before lunch. Smith reached his second half-century in 11 months, but Josh Tongue was run out by another direct hit. Smith was caught at long-off shortly afterward, completing England's innings at 212. New Zealand's bowlers took the remaining wickets with disciplined lines and sharp fielding.

The result marked the end of Ben Stokes' four-year captaincy and 15-year international career. England have now lost seven of their last nine Tests and have not won a series since 2024. >"This was supposed to be the beginning of England's post-Ashes rebuild.

The visitors were without several players through injury yet maintained control throughout the match. England face a white-ball series against India starting Wednesday and must appoint a new Test captain before their next match against Pakistan in August.