England slump to 160-run defeat in Ben Stokes’ last game as an England cricketer

England suffered a 160-run defeat to New Zealand at Trent Bridge, wrapping up a series loss on a disappointing final day that also marked the final appearance of Ben Stokes as an England international.

Chasing 373, England resumed on the fifth morning at 103-4 but never seriously threatened the target. Early wickets of Joe Root and Emilio Gay quickly extinguished any realistic hopes, leaving the lower order to play out the inevitable.

Jamie Smith provided the only meaningful resistance, scoring 60 from 90 balls in a composed innings. He added 75 with Gus Atkinson (19) for the seventh wicket, briefly steadying England after a collapse the previous evening had left them in trouble.

England’s chase had effectively unravelled late on day four when Stokes (30 off 20), Jacob Bethell (0), Harry Brook (21 off 9) and Ben Duckett (36 off 42) all fell across a chaotic passage of play. Brook’s dismissal prompted audible disbelief from the New Zealand players, with stump mic audio capturing the comment: “What are they doing?”

On the final morning, Nathan Smith (2-64), who finished the series as leading wicket-taker with 16, removed Gay before Root was run out four balls later after a sharp direct hit from Henry Nicholls, who managed the throw while losing his balance in the field.

New Zealand’s discipline in the field again proved decisive, matching a controlled bowling performance despite a depleted pace attack and a mid-innings hamstring injury to Will O’Rourke.

Smith also contributed with the bat in a crucial passage alongside Atkinson, striking a straight six off Mitchell Santner as New Zealand chipped away at the target. Atkinson faced 70 deliveries in a patient stand that reduced the deficit but also slowed England’s scoring rate.

Santner (2-54) removed Atkinson lbw just before lunch, prompting criticism of England’s approach. Sky Sports’ Stuart Broad said during commentary: “I don’t quite get the logic of watching Gus Atkinson face 70 balls, blocking it, and Harry Brook getting 20 off nine!”

After the interval, England’s tail folded quickly. Jofra Archer edged behind off Smith before Josh Tongue (2) was run out via a sharp piece of fielding from Santner, who also later struck with a direct hit of his own.

Smith eventually top-scored in the match with a controlled 87-ball half-century before holing out to Santner in the deep, sealing New Zealand’s victory and series success.

The result leaves England with seven defeats in their last nine Tests and a first home series defeat of three matches or more since 2012, while also prompting renewed scrutiny of their aggressive “Bazball” approach following a series of mixed performances.