NZ coach Walter backs Nicholls to continue at number three

Henry Nicholls has cemented his place at number three in New Zealand's test cricket lineup after his crucial contributions to their recent 2-1 series victory over England. The opportunity arose when former captain Kane Williamson unexpectedly quit international cricket mid-series.

Nicholls stepped into the pivotal number three role for the last two tests, responding with a strong performance that yielded 197 runs, including his 11th test century. His efforts were instrumental in New Zealand winning both of those matches to clinch the series.

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I think Henry wouldn't have wanted to get his opportunity through Kane's retirement because that was in itself a loss for the team. However, he's still a highly experienced guy with lots of performance under the belt, and could come in on the back of strong performances domestically, earning his spot back and taking that number three spot. So certainly I won't be giving that number three to anyone else because he's deserved it.

Head coach Rob Walter expressed confidence in Nicholls, acknowledging the difficult circumstances of his return but highlighting his experience and recent domestic form. "He's still a highly experienced guy with lots of performance under the belt, and could come in on the back of strong performances domestically, earning his spot back and taking that number three spot," Walter said. "So certainly I won't be giving that number three to anyone else because he's deserved it."

Walter also reflected on the broader lesson for players, emphasizing the need for hard work and consistent performance even after facing setbacks like being dropped from the team. New Zealand's next challenge is a multi-format series against India, scheduled from October 22 to December 1.

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Ultimately, it's a lesson for anyone that there's always going to be these disappointments of being left out of the team. But all you can do is just go back, work hard, put some runs on the board, put performances on the board, win games for your team.