England's collapse at The Oval saw New Zealand level the Test series after Matt Henry's 11-wicket haul dismantled the hosts. Joe Root anchored England's futile chase with 123, but over-tinkered fields and a disastrous bouncer barrage epitomized their struggles. Meanwhile, Ben Duckett (45) and Emilio Gay (64) faltered under pressure, with Gay's dropped catch proving pivotal.

The absence of captain Ben Stokes, sidelined by a nightclub incident, left Jacob Bethell (4-75) overburdened with the ball, while debutants James Rew and Josh Tongue underwhelmed. New Zealand's Matt Henry (11 wickets) and Glenn Phillips (50) spearheaded the rout, with Henry's leg-stump yorker sealing victory.

Root's leadership came under scrutiny as England's batting lineup crumbled despite his grit. Meanwhile, Harry Brook's audacious 50 and Jordan Cox's elite fielding highlighted both promise and inconsistency. The series now shifts to Trent Bridge, where England will aim to regain momentum.