‘We've done something special’: Nathan Smith praises Blackcaps' determination against England

Elena Abbott • June 30th, 2026 9:28 am

The Blackcaps celebrate their Test series win over England | Photo: Matthew Impey/Photosport

The Blackcaps can finally relax after trumping England and winning their fourth-ever Test series in the UK.

The New Zealand red-ball side won the third Test match overnight, bowling the English out for 212 runs.

Man of the series Nathan Smith told Sport Nation Breakfast he’s proud of his performance across the three Tests, where he collected 16 wickets.

“[I’m] really, really happy with the way I've got through these four tests.

“I pride myself on being able to do any role, whether it be with the new ball, with the old ball, batting eight,” he said.

Nathan Smith catches Jamie Smith to win the match and series | Photo: Matthew Impey/Photosport

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing for the Blackcaps, who dealt with shock retirements, injuries and challenging wickets.

Smith talked about the team having to adapt and rebuild after the heavy defeat at Lord’s, saying the small wins were what made the series victory sweeter.

“We understand how special this is, not only the individual performances, but the things that you probably look at and you don't think they're that special; guys running in on one leg, calling on the bench and all those key partnerships.

“We've got guys who are willing to put the yards in the team,” he acknowledged.

Nathan Smith | Photo: Matthew Impey/Photosport

The monumental comeback in England has boosted the morale in the Blackcaps camp, giving them momentum for their upcoming series against the West Indies.

“The boys are really soaking it in. They understand the importance of it,” Smith said.

The West Indies series will be the last before New Zealand's home international summer begins in October, but the Blackcaps are hoping their good fortunes carry on through the remainder of the year.

Smith said maintained confidence is crucial for the team to thrive.

“We've won in India, we've beat England here, so I think, you know we go over there and we're going to have a hell of a lot of support.

“We know how good this team can be ahead of a massive Test summer coming up,” he continued.

The first ODI against the West Indies starts on July 12 at 6.30am (NZ Time).

Listen to the full interview below: