New Zealand Crushes England to Secure 423-Run Victory in Tim Southee’s Farewell Test
New Zealand delivered a stunning performance on Tuesday, dismantling England’s batting lineup to secure a massive 423-run victory in the third Test in Hamilton. The win marked a triumphant farewell for veteran seamer Tim Southee, who retired from Test cricket after an illustrious career.
The hosts wrapped up the match in just 41.2 overs on day four, dismissing England for 234 in their second innings. The dominant win equaled New Zealand’s highest-ever margin of victory by runs and was a remarkable turnaround after England’s comprehensive victories in the first two Tests of the series.
Playing his final Test on his home ground at Seddon Park, Southee claimed figures of 2-34, capping off a stellar career with 391 wickets—second only to Richard Hadlee among New Zealanders.
Southee’s Farewell Address
Reflecting on his career, the 36-year-old expressed gratitude to New Zealand Cricket, his teammates, and the fans.
“I want to thank New Zealand Cricket for everything you’ve done, my family, who’ve been there through the ups and downs, and my teammates. These guys have made the ride so much more enjoyable—I’ve loved every minute,” Southee said.
He added, “And finally, the fans. It’s always great to turn out in front of the crowd. This week has been pretty special to play at Seddon Park in front of a fantastic audience.”
England’s Disappointment
England skipper Ben Stokes, sidelined due to a hamstring injury, did not bat in the second innings. Speaking after the loss, Stokes admitted disappointment at the team’s performance.
“You can’t fault the energy or effort we put into the game,” Stokes said. “Obviously, it’s not ideal to end the series on this note, but New Zealand are a strong side and didn’t give up. We wanted to leave with three victories in the bag.”
England’s Collapse
Resuming the day at 18-2, England never looked likely to chase the daunting target of 658. Key players Jacob Bethell (76), Joe Root (54). And Harry Brook (1) were dismissed before lunch, dashing any hopes of a comeback.
Root, England’s highest run-scorer, was trapped lbw sweeping Mitchell Santner, falling 28 runs short of reaching 13,000 Test runs. Brook, who had been pivotal in the earlier Tests, fell cheaply again at Seddon Park, caught behind off Will O’Rourke.
Bethell, who struck 13 fours and a six, looked solid until he was caught at deep point off a wide Southee delivery. The rest of the batting lineup crumbled, with Ollie Pope (17), Gus Atkinson (43), and the tailenders falling to ill-judged shots.
Santner Shines
All-rounder Mitchell Santner was instrumental in New Zealand’s win. Finishing with figures of 4-85 in the second innings and seven wickets in the match. His contributions with the bat—76 and 49—further highlighted his impact on the game.
New Zealand’s emphatic victory sent Southee into retirement on a high note, solidifying his legacy as one of the country’s finest cricketers.
