England took between two and four late wickets on Day 1 of the third Test after New Zealand posted a massive opening partnership [1, 2].

The result of the first day puts England in a precarious position in the series decider. New Zealand's early dominance forced the home side to fight for breakthroughs to avoid a complete collapse in the match.

Tom Latham and Michael Conway controlled the pace of the game at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The pair shared a 317-run opening partnership [2], a stand that left England struggling to find a way through the New Zealand top order for the majority of the day.

England eventually found a rhythm as the day progressed. Reports differ on the exact number of breakthroughs, with one source stating England took two late wickets [1], while another reported four late wickets [2]. Despite the late surge, New Zealand remained in command as the first day concluded.

"Latham and Conway shared a 317-run partnership before England rallied with four late wickets," AP said [2].

The struggle for England was evident throughout the opening session. The team needed to break the dominance of the New Zealand openers to stay competitive in the match [2]. While the late wickets provided a glimmer of hope, the sheer volume of runs conceded early in the game leaves England with a significant deficit to overcome.

"England took two late wickets to hang in their decider against New Zealand on a brutal opening day," a Yahoo Sports reporter said [1].

“Latham and Conway shared a 317-run partnership”

The massive opening stand by New Zealand shifts the psychological and numerical advantage heavily toward the visitors. While England's late wickets prevent a total shutout on Day 1, they must now dismantle a confident batting lineup and chase a likely inflated total to win the deciding Test.