Third test between England, New Zealand from today

The third and final test between England and New Zealand would be kicked off today (Thursday).

New Zealand wicket keeper Brendon McCullum may play as a specialist batsman in the third and final test against England starting on Thursday because of a back injury.

Reserve keeper Gareth Hopkins has been placed on standby fora test debut. England lead 1-0 in the series.

England named on Wednesday the team who won the second test at Old Trafford by six wickets. It is the first time in 123years that they have kept the same side for five matches in a row.