Tom Latham backs New Zealand’s proven formula ahead of Trent Bridge decider
New Zealand captain Tom Latham has called on his side to continue embracing an “old-school” brand of Test cricket as the Blackcaps prepare for the decisive third Test against England cricket team at Trent Bridge.
With the three-match series locked at 1-1, New Zealand head into the final Test full of confidence after a commanding 253-run victory at The Oval. The win came just days after the shock retirement of Kane Williamson from international cricket, making the performance even more significant for the visitors.
Latham believes the victory highlighted the value of patience, discipline and sustained pressure rather than relying solely on the aggressive style that has become increasingly common in modern Test cricket.
“It was a little bit more old-school, trying to do things for long periods of time and keep being a threat for long periods of time,” Latham explained ahead of the series decider.
The New Zealand skipper emphasized that while the team’s ultimate goal is to secure the series victory, success will come from remaining committed to their strengths and continuing to improve with each match.
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Blackcaps eager to keep improving
New Zealand recovered impressively after losing the opening Test at Lord’s, producing a complete team performance in the second match to level the series.
Latham believes the team has grown stronger throughout the tour and wants that progress to continue at Trent Bridge.
“We’ve got better and better throughout the series, and hopefully we can keep improving on those performances,” he said.
The captain stressed that maintaining New Zealand’s identity and sticking to proven methods will be crucial if they are to overcome England on home soil.
Kyle Jamieson rested as selection questions emerge
New Zealand will be forced into at least one change for the third Test after pace bowler Kyle Jamieson was rested as part of a pre-planned workload management strategy following his lengthy recovery from a back stress fracture.
Latham clarified that Jamieson’s absence is purely precautionary.
“He’s certainly not injured; there’s nothing there to worry about. It was always the plan for him to get through two Test matches.”
Fast bowler Blair Tickner is expected to replace Jamieson, although New Zealand are also considering a different tactical approach.
Mitchell Santner in contention amid English heatwave
All-rounder Mitchell Santner is firmly in contention as New Zealand weigh up the possibility of fielding a frontline spinner for the first time in the series.
Santner recently returned from a shoulder injury and has impressed the management with his preparation and fitness. With unusually warm conditions across England, spin could play a bigger role than earlier in the series.
Latham praised Santner’s dedication and versatility.
“He’s someone that spins the ball on many different surfaces. If we do go down that line, then we certainly know he’ll be a threat throughout the five days.”
Memories of 2022 still fresh
New Zealand’s previous visit to Trent Bridge remains a painful memory. During the 2022 series, England famously chased down 299 runs in just 50 overs, driven by explosive innings from Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes.
Despite the result, Latham believes the margins were much closer than the scorecards suggested.
“If you look at that series as a whole, the results were probably a little bit closer than what the scoreboard suggests,” he reflected.
The New Zealand captain acknowledged that Trent Bridge remains one of England’s most challenging venues for bowlers due to its fast-scoring nature, quick outfield and relatively compact dimensions.
Adapting quickly will be key
Latham expects another high-scoring contest but believes New Zealand’s experience and growing confidence can help them cope with the conditions.
The skipper emphasized the importance of adapting quickly to both the surface and the unique characteristics of Trent Bridge.
“It’s all about playing what’s in front of us as much as we can,” he said.
With the series level and a Test series victory in England within reach, New Zealand now have an opportunity to cap off a remarkable turnaround. If the Blackcaps can reproduce the disciplined, old-school cricket that brought success at The Oval, they will give themselves every chance of securing a memorable series triumph.