Black Caps v England: NZ deserve a third test

Three observations from the fourth day of the first test between New Zealand and England.

1. Where's the third test?
With the series already intense between two evenly-matched test sides, a third match would be welcome. Hopefully, now New Zealand is third-ranked, they can bargain for extra away tests when they negotiate with members of The Big Three.

That still requires a commanding fourth innings with the bat on a Bank Holiday Monday in London.

New Zealand's failure in 2013, getting dismissed for 68 chasing 239 still haunts. On the flipside, if they pull off a victory on the final day, it will fuel the argument they are the country's greatest test side.

2. Cook's response under pressure.
An off-drive boundary brought up his 27th test century, a feat which highlighted his capacity to concentrate, given the position of the game and the pressure he's faced during the saga over the national board's refusal to consider recalling Kevin Pietersen.

Cook was bombarded about the issue at the pre-match media conference and probably welcomed the chance to cocoon himself away in the middle of Lord's. This was a blueprint for how to positively apply a siege mentality.

He also added to a career theme on his way to 153 not out. With seven centuries in the third innings of a test after a first innings deficit, he joined Brian Lara and Kumar Sangakkara; Martin Crowe and Sachin Tendulkar made eight.

England's Alastair Cook celebrates scoring 150. Photo / AP

3. Ben Stokes v Tim Southee
Stokes' ground record 85-ball century helped England deliver one of the most destructive displays this New Zealand bowling attack has faced. That was exemplified by Southee's concession of 53 runs from six overs with the second new ball.

The plan seemed to be to pitch short because Stokes would be tempted to hook and pull in the air. He took the bait, helping contribute 20, 17 and 12 off three of the six overs.
Stokes admitted if the ball was short he was intent on playing with full commitment. He did, sustaining the attention of patrons, particularly those peppered in the Mound and Tavern stands.

England's Ben Stokes watches as he hits a 4 off the bowling of New Zealand's Tim Southee. Photo / AP