What is the England vs New Zealand 2nd Test?
The second Test of the 2026 Rothesay series between England and New Zealand is a five-day international cricket match and the centrepiece of the Black Caps’ summer tour of England. Forming part of the three-match series for the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, this fixture carries significance for both sides as they jostle for position in the ICC World Test Championship standings. England, under the captaincy of Ben Stokes, will look to build on momentum from the opening Test at Lord’s, while New Zealand will be determined to show the resilience that has made them one of Test cricket’s most competitive touring sides.
When is the England vs New Zealand 2nd Test?
The match runs from Tuesday 17 June to Saturday 21 June 2026, with play scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM BST each day. The five-day format allows for the full tactical chess match that makes Test cricket unique, although results inside four days are increasingly common in the modern game.
Where is the England vs New Zealand 2nd Test?
The second Test takes place at the Kia Oval in Kennington, London, the home ground of Surrey County Cricket Club. One of England’s most historic and atmospheric cricket venues, the Oval has hosted international cricket since 1880 and is renowned for its excellent playing surface and vibrant matchday atmosphere. The ground holds approximately 25,500 spectators and offers superb transport links, sitting just a short walk from both Oval and Vauxhall Underground stations. This will be the first time New Zealand’s Test team has visited the Kia Oval in 27 years, making it a special occasion for the ground.
Key Contenders
England will rely heavily on captain Ben Stokes, whose aggressive ‘Bazball’ philosophy has transformed English Test cricket since 2022. Joe Root remains the backbone of the batting order, while the pace attack, likely featuring Mark Wood and Gus Atkinson, will look to exploit home conditions. For New Zealand, the batting will hinge on Kane Williamson’s experience, while Tim Southee and the pace contingent will need to adapt quickly to English conditions. The series opener at Lord’s will set the tone, and whichever side arrives at the Oval with momentum will hold a psychological edge.
How to Watch
In the United Kingdom, live coverage of all England home Test matches is available on Sky Sports Cricket. Highlights are typically shown on free-to-air television via Channel 5. International viewers can access coverage through the ICC’s broadcast partners, including Spark Sport in New Zealand. BBC Test Match Special provides ball-by-ball radio commentary on BBC Radio 4 and 5 Live Sports Extra throughout the match.
History and Records
England and New Zealand have a long Test cricket history dating back to 1930. England have historically dominated the head-to-head record, though New Zealand have become increasingly competitive in recent decades. The Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, named after Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe, is contested whenever the two sides meet in a bilateral Test series. The Kia Oval has produced memorable Test cricket over the years, including being the venue where The Ashes were first conceived in 1882 following England’s famous defeat to Australia.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for all five days are available through the Surrey County Cricket Club website. Given the rarity of New Zealand Test visits to the Oval, demand is expected to be high. Hospitality packages, including the ICON and VIBE experiences, are available for those seeking a premium matchday. The ground’s 25,500 capacity typically sells well for international fixtures, and early booking is recommended. For group bookings or corporate hospitality enquiries, the sales team can be reached on 0207 820 5699.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy?
The Crowe-Thorpe Trophy is awarded to the winner of bilateral Test series between England and New Zealand. It is named in honour of New Zealand great Martin Crowe and England’s Graham Thorpe, two of their respective countries’ finest batsmen.
How do I get to the Kia Oval?
The Kia Oval is located in Kennington, south London. The nearest Underground stations are Oval (Northern Line) and Vauxhall (Victoria Line), both within a five-minute walk. Vauxhall mainline station also provides easy access from south-west London and Surrey.
What time does play start each day?
Play is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM BST on each of the five days, with a lunch break at 1:00 PM and a tea break at 3:40 PM. A minimum of 90 overs is scheduled per day.
Can I bring food and drink into the Kia Oval?
The Kia Oval permits spectators to bring in their own food and soft drinks, though alcohol is not allowed to be brought into the ground. A wide range of food and drink outlets are available inside the venue.