Latest news
Strauss century punishes NZ
Andrew Strauss scored a magnificent unbeaten century as England gained total control of the decisive third Test.
Strauss, whose place had been in doubt before the game in Napier, ended day three unbeaten on 173, made from 337 deliveries faced and including 25 boundaries.
England closed on a massive 416-5, with a lead of 501 over New Zealand and still with two days to go to try and clinch a series victory.
Resuming on 91-2 in their second innings, England lost Kevin Pietersen (34) with the score on 140, bringing Ian Bell to the crease to join Strauss.
The pair proceeded to put on 187 for the fifth wicket to effectively bat New Zealand out of the game, helping England to bet through the whole of the second session without losing a wicket.
Strauss reached his century shortly before tea, it was his 11th in Test cricket, but his first since August 2006 against Pakistan.
Bell was not far behind Strauss in reaching three figures, before he eventually fell for a superb 110, made from 167 balls and including 17 fours and two sixes.
Paul Collingwood made 22 before he became on of three wickets in the day for Daniel Vettori, who was the only home bowler to enjoy any success.
Strauss carried on past 150 and had added 55 for the sixth wicket with Tim Abrose by the close, with the wicketkeeper unbeaten on 28.
