3rd Test: New Zealand Crush England To Send Tim Southee Out On A High

New Zealand tore through England's batting Tuesday to crush the visitors by 423 runs in the third Test and send Tim Southee into retirement on a triumphant note. The hosts sealed a dominant performance in Hamilton by claiming seven wickets in 41.2 overs on day four as England crumbled for 234. It was New Zealand's equal highest victory by runs and a complete reversal from the first two Tests, which England won easily to clinch the three-match series. Playing on his home ground at Seddon Park, seamer Southee finished with 2-34 in his 107th and final Test, ending the career of one of New Zealand's finest players. 

He finishes with 391 Test wickets, second only to Richard Hadlee among New Zealanders.

"I want to thank New Zealand Cricket for everything you have done. My family, who are there for the ride and see the ups and downs," said the 36-year-old Southee.

"And my team-mates. These guys have made the ride so much more enjoyable, I have loved every minute.

"And finally the fans. It is always great to turn out in front of numbers. This week has been pretty special to play at Seddon Park in front of a great crowd."

New Zealand only needed to take nine second-innings wickets for an emphatic victory because England skipper Ben Stokes did not bat.

Stokes suffered a hamstring injury on Monday.

Stokes said it was disappointing to end the series in the manner England did.

"You can't fault any of the energy or effort we put into the game," he said.

"Obviously it's not ideal to end a series on this note but New Zealand are a strong side and didn't give up.

"We want to come out and win every game we play. We wanted to leave with three victories in the bag."

England crumble

After resuming at 18-2, England never threatened their