NZ coach Walter backs Nicholls to continue at number three

Nicholls steps into Williamson's number three position for the last two Tests and scores 197 runs

New Zealand's Henry Nicholls poses for a selfie with a fan as he celebrates during the post match presentation ceremony. Reuters/Andrew Boyers

Henry Nicholls has locked down New Zealand's number three Test spot after his performances helped secure a 2-1 series victory over England, head coach Rob Walter said.

Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson last month quit international cricket in the middle of the series in England after scoring zero and 18 in the opening Test.

Nicholls stepped into Williamson's number three position for the last two Tests and scored 197 runs, including his 11th century in the longest format, as New Zealand won both matches and clinched the series.

"I think Henry wouldn't have wanted to get his opportunity through Kane's retirement because that was in itself a loss for the team," Walter told reporters.

"However, he's still a highly experienced guy with lots of performance under the belt, and could come in on the back of strong performances domestically, earning his spot back and taking that number three spot.

"So certainly I won't be giving that number three to anyone else because he's deserved it."

Prior to the two wins over England, Nicholls had featured in just two Tests since 2023.

"Ultimately, it's a lesson for anyone that there's always going to be these disappointments of being left out of the team," Walter added.

"But all you can do is just go back, work hard, put some runs on the board, put performances on the board, win games for your team."

New Zealand next host India in a multi-format series, which runs from Oct 22 to Dec 1.