New Zealand seized control of the series-deciding third Test at Trent Bridge with a commanding first-day performance that saw them post 361-4 by stumps. Openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway stitched together a massive 317-run partnership, leaving England toiling in the heat and appearing out of ideas for long periods.

England captain Ben Stokes, returning to lead after being stood down for the previous defeat, broke the stand by removing Latham, while Joe Root's part-time spin accounted for Conway. The hosts clawed back momentum late, taking four wickets for 44 runs including Gus Atkinson's dismissal of Rachin Ravindra and Jofra Archer's catch behind off Henry Nicholls.

Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull suggested England would be thrilled with their late breakthroughs, particularly with nightwatchman Will O'Rourke set to resume on Friday. Doull believes New Zealand missed an opportunity to push toward 550-plus runs on what he described as a flat, blazing-hot surface.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara echoed concerns that Conway appeared fatigued and could have managed his output better. The series stands level after England's victory at Lord's and New Zealand's thumping win at The Oval, making this Trent Bridge clash decisive.