Taylor becomes New Zealand's top test run scorer

Ross Taylor became New Zealand's highest run-scorer in the longest form of the game on Monday when he hit three runs through mid-on after tea on the fourth day of the third test against Australia.

The 35-year-old, playing in his 99th test, overhauled the tally of 7 172 Stephen Fleming managed in 111 matches between 1994 and 2008.

Any joy the former New Zealand captain felt at passing the milestone was short-lived as he was bowled for 22 by paceman Pat Cummins five balls later.

New Zealand were facing a third heavy defeat in the series at 38-5 chasing an unlikely 416 for victory at the Sydney Cricket Ground with more than a day of the match to go.