NZ power to huge lead in third Test as England crumble

England's hopes of a series clean sweep all but evaporated on Sunday as they capitulated on day two of the third Test to trail New Zealand by 340 runs.

- Agencies

HAMILTON:

With fast bowler Will O'Rourke firing the home side skittled England for 143, before the Black Caps reached 136-3 by stumps in their second innings in Hamilton.

It was easily their best day of a series in which they had been outplayed by England until now.

New Zealand's controlled strokeplay in the final session was in contrast to some chaotic English batting between lunch and tea where they lost their last eight wickets for 66 runs.

"It hasn't been our best day, it's as simple as that," said England assistant coach Paul Collingwood.

At the close, Kane Williamson was at the crease on 50 and Rachin Ravindra two.

Williamson put on 89 for the second wicket with Will Young (60) following the departure of captain Tom Latham for 19.

Scoreless nightwatchman O'Rourke gave England captain Ben Stokes (2-45) a second wicket soon before the close.