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McCullum batting at three for New Zealand

05/06/2008

New Zealand wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum has been named as the number three batsman for the third Test against England at Trent Bridge.

The regular gloveman is suffering from a bad back so is unable to keep wicket, meaning reserve Gareth Hopkins makes his debut behind the stumps for the tourists.

James Marshall, who played at number three in the last Test but made only 28 runs in two innings, makes way.

The Black Caps have kept faith with the opening partnership of Aaron Redmond and Jamie How ahead of McCullum in the batting order, with Ross Taylor - who made an unbeaten 154 in the first innings of the second Test - staying at four.

Daniel Flynn retains his place at five, despite having to visit the dentist at least three times since he was struck in the mouth and lost a tooth at Old Trafford two weeks ago.

After Hopkins, Jacob Oram and captain Daniel Vettori bat at seven and eight respectively, with the bowling attack of Kyle Mills, Iain O'Brien and Chris Martin retained.

England have kept the same lineup for the fifth Test in succession - equalling a 123-year-old record - as they go in search of the win that would give them a 2-0 series victory over the Black Caps.

Vettori has won the toss for the tourists and chose to bowl first.

Full New Zealand lineup to face England at Trent Bridge:

Jamie How
Aaron Redmond
Brendon McCullum
Ross Taylor
Daniel Flynn
Gareth Hopkins (wicketkeeper)
Jacob Oram
Daniel Vettori (captain)
Kyle Mills
Iain O'Brien
Chris Martin