England seized control of the deciding Test at Trent Bridge, reaching 223 for 2 to trail New Zealand by 215 runs after a commanding second day. Ben Stokes led the bowling fightback with 4-70, helping dismiss the tourists for 438 after they had been 317 for 0, while Ben Duckett blazed an 88-ball hundred to anchor the reply.

Duckett shared a 179-run partnership with Jacob Bethell at exactly a run-a-ball, transforming the match after New Zealand's openers had compiled centuries. The left-hander survived an early drop by Henry Nicholls on 8, punishing the visitors ruthlessly as England matched their opponents' intensity from day one. Bethell supported well with 74 not out, bringing up his half-century after tea as the hosts built momentum.

New Zealand's collapse of 10 wickets for 121 runs shifted the series decisively toward England. The tourists also lost Blair Tickner to concussion after being struck by Jofra Archer, compounding their troubles. Devon Conway (157) and Tom Latham (151) had given them a flying start, but the middle order failed to capitalize on their 300-run opening stand.

This represents a significant turnaround from the first day's play. England's batting depth and Stokes's experience give them clear advantages heading into day three, with the home crowd energizing the team's push for a crucial series-winning lead.