NZ in charge after Nicholls century as England labour on day three

New Zealand assumed complete control of the second Test as Henry Nicholls' century punished England errors on another day of frustration in the field at The Oval. Nicholls claimed an 11th Test ton, finishing the day unbeaten on 119, after an innings-shifting 161-run partnership with Rachin Ravindra (76 off 99 balls) resurrected New Zealand from 28-2 following the early loss of openers Tom Latham (4) and Devon Conway (11).

Another fifty stand between Nicholls and Daryl Mitchell (33 not out off 43) added to England's plight before a forgettable day was done, with the Black Caps reaching stumps…