New Zealand thrash England in final Test to win series 2-1

New Zealand secured a comprehensive 160-run victory over England in the third Test at Trent Bridge on Monday, clinching the three-match series 2-1. The win marked a historic result for the visitors, who had not won a Test series on English soil since 1999.

The match also brought the curtain down on Ben Stokes' international career. The England all-rounder, who captained the side in the series, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this year, and the Trent Bridge Test was his final appearance in an England shirt.

What happened in the match

New Zealand set England a daunting target of 394 runs after declaring their second innings at 320 for 6. England's chase never gained momentum, with the home side bowled out for 233 in the final session. Spinner Ajaz Patel was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, taking 4 wickets, while fast bowler Tim Southee claimed 3.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand's first innings total of 480 was built on centuries from Devon Conway and Kane Williamson. England responded with 387, led by Joe Root's 115, but the visitors' second innings declaration set up an inevitable chase.

• New Zealand's victory margin of 160 runs was the largest by any team in a Test at Trent Bridge since 2015.
• Ben Stokes contributed 12 and 5 in his final Test, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
• This series win is New Zealand's first Test series victory in England since 1999.
• Kane Williamson was named Player of the Series for his 396 runs across three matches.
• England's loss means they have now won only two of their last eight Test series.

What's next for both teams

New Zealand will host South Africa in a two-Test series starting in February, while England face a busy summer schedule with a home Test series against Australia and Ireland. The retirement of Ben Stokes leaves a significant void in England's lineup, with no immediate replacement named as captain.

For New Zealand, the series win caps off a triumphant tour that included a 1-1 draw in the earlier one-day international series. The team will look to build on this momentum when they return to home conditions.