England Eyes 3-0 Sweep in New Zealand as Stokes Reflects on Transformative Year

With a revamped squad and standout performances from rising stars like Harry Brook, England wraps up a demanding year of Test cricket in Hamilton.

England concludes its busiest Test cricket year since 2016 with the final match of a three-Test series against New Zealand, aiming for a 3-0 whitewash.
Captain Ben Stokes has emphasized focusing on the present after admitting he previously placed too much emphasis on the 2025-26 Ashes series.
Harry Brook has emerged as a key player for England, rising to No. 1 in the Test batting rankings and being hailed as a 'generational talent' by cricket greats.
England's squad has undergone significant changes in 2024, with younger players like Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse stepping up, while veterans like James Anderson and Jonny Bairstow have moved on.
New Zealand's Tim Southee will retire after this match, concluding a 16-year international career at his home ground, Seddon Park.