Joe Root shines as England struggles against New Zealand in second Test

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 6:39 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

Joe Root shines as England struggles against New Zealand in second Test
Summary

Joe Root scored an unbeaten 75 as England struggled at 182 for five, chasing 463 runs in the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval. With five wickets remaining, England faces a heavy defeat. Root's performance comes amidst the team's tumultuous recent history, having won the first Test but faltering in subsequent matches. New Zealand capitalized on England's errors and inconsistency, taking control of the series with this significant lead. The two teams will meet again at Trent Bridge in the decisive third Test next week.

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Latest Updates
  • England is at 182 for five, needing 281 more runs.
  • Joe Root has passed 14,000 Test runs with his unbeaten score.
  • New Zealand has outplayed England, taking five wickets to maintain pressure.
  • The next match will be at Trent Bridge next week.
Latest Updates
  • 6:39 PMYahoo SportsRag-tag England on brink despite Root’s brilliance
What they're saying
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Brendon McCullum was sitting alone on the England balcony during Saturday’s evening session watching the second Test slip away.

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