Black Caps on the ropes after rain-affected day three against England at Lord's

Rain halted play on day three of the first test between the Black Caps and England at Lord's, but New Zealand remains in a precarious position. After only 58 balls were possible, the Black Caps were 55-5 in their second innings, still 199 runs short of their 254-run target.

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On a pitch that’s seen batters on both sides struggle, and a top score of just 57 to England debutant Emilio Gay, New Zealand lost two wickets in four balls, as inconsistent bounce and unpredictable lateral movement off the pitch ultimately told.

Batters struggled on a challenging pitch throughout the day, with inconsistent bounce and lateral movement proving difficult. New Zealand lost two wickets in quick succession late in the day, with Ollie Robinson continuing his strong performance. He took two wickets on day three, adding to the five he claimed in the first innings, further tormenting the Black Caps.

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And unless the surface miraculously flattens out under the Lord’s hover cover, England’s attack will aim to wrap up New Zealand’s chase as quickly as they can on day four.

Devon Conway (19 not out) and Tom Blundell (2 not out) will resume their partnership, weather permitting, on day four. England's bowlers will aim to wrap up the victory quickly, seeking a 1-0 series lead. The Black Caps face an uphill battle to survive and chase the remaining runs on a pitch that has offered assistance to the bowlers.

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He trapped Daryl Mitchell LBW for a duck in his next over to leave the Black Caps five down, with 201 still needed for victory.