New Zealand take control in Auckland

Alastair Cook's decision to put New Zealand in to bat has backfired as the hosts put themselves in command of the third Test against England.

The hosts are on 250-1 at stumps on the first day in Auckland, with Peter Fulton (124) unbeaten at the crease having brought up his maiden Test century.

Kane Williamson has played patiently for his 83 runs and will also return tomorrow.

England's only victim of the day was Hamish Rutherford (37), who fell prey to Steven Finn just before lunch.

He edged a delivery to the slips and Cook made no mistake in taking the catch.

Otherwise, the tourists have had a tough start to the deciding match with the pitch offering very little for the bowlers.