3rd Test: McCullum shattered as victory slips through NZ’s fingers

Unbeaten Prior scores century to help England clinch unlikely draw.

AUCKLAND: Wicket-keeper Matt Prior produced a belligerent century to ensure England saved the series-deciding third Test against New Zealand at Eden Park yesterday, despite Kane Williamson taking two late wickets that almost snatched victory for the hosts.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum’s under-rated side had come within one wicket of upsetting the world’s second-ranked Test team to claim the series 1-0 after the first two matches in Dunedin and Wellington ended in rain-affected draws.

By the close of play, the tourists had reached 315 for nine with Prior scoring a match-saving century, while Ian Bell had lasted almost six hours for a patient 75.

“It is heartbreaking,” said McCullum. “We played some brilliant cricket throughout the series. Unfortunately we weren’t able to penetrate to get that one more wicket.”

Prior was ably supported by Stuart Broad (two not out) who provided obstinate defence taking 62 balls, and 102 minutes, to get off the mark.

“I’m not really one to celebrate draws but to get away with that was a phenomenal effort,” said Prior.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 27^th, 2013.