England are in serious trouble against New Zealand after a dramatic collapse on day two of the second Test at The Oval.
Having produced an encouraging performance on the opening day despite the absence of captain Ben Stokes, England surrendered the initiative through questionable tactics, a costly dropped catch and a superb maiden Test century from Glenn Phillips.
New Zealand resumed on 291-7 overnight and capitalised on England's mistakes to post 391 all out.
England's troubles began with the very first ball of the day when they attempted a short-ball tactic to Kyle Jamieson with Sonny Baker. The bouncer raced away for four byes, setting the tone for a frustrating morning.
Jamieson then made a valuable 41 after being dropped by Ben Duckett on 15. Jofra Archer did not bowl during the first 90 minutes of play, including with the second new ball, but eventually struck with just his fourth delivery.
With the bat, England made a promising start as Emilio Gay scored a half-century and stand-in captain Joe Root contributed 46. However, the hosts then lost three wickets for just 35 runs to slump to 177-5.
Their problems were compounded when Duckett was run out for 36 after responding to a risky and ill-judged call for a quick single from Gay.
Gay and Root had added 74 for the third wicket before Matt Henry delivered a major blow by trapping both Root and Harry Brook lbw in quick succession.
James Rew then gloved a hostile delivery from Will O'Rourke late in the day, leaving England on 222-6 at stumps, still 169 runs behind and with the tail exposed. Jordan Cox will resume unbeaten on 22 alongside Jofra Archer, who is yet to score.
