Domination at its very best – Bazball has been buried where it began its journey, says Michael Atherton on air. Disappointment for England, joy and history for New Zealand. The Kiwis have done something they last managed 27 years ago, claiming a series win in England in a series of three or more Tests for the first time since 1999. And the curtain falls on Ben Stokes’ England career, not in the blaze of glory he would have wanted, but in defeat. This is England’s seventh Test match defeat in their last nine matches, which makes them think plenty about moving forward under a new captain, in a new era. New Zealand, on the other hand, were simply brilliant. What stood out most was how they stepped up with a depleted bowling attack, never flinching, never losing shape. Sharp in the field, composed under pressure, and there when it mattered most, with someone or the other taking the responsibility. Tom Latham walks off with a stump in hand with a proud smile, and his team follows him behind. The Nottingham crowd inside gives them a warm applause for a well-deserved series win.




