Match Summary
- England 1st Innings: 280 (Brook 123, Pope 66, Smith 4-86)
- England 2nd Innings: 427/6 declared (Root 106, Bethell 96, Duckett 92, Brook 55)
- New Zealand 1st Innings: 125 (Atkinson 4-31, Carse 4-46)
- New Zealand 2nd Innings: 259 (Blundell 115, Stokes 3-5)
- Result: England won by 323 runs
England’s Test Series Triumph
England finally broke a 16-year drought, winning their first Test series in New Zealand since 2008. The Basin Reserve in Wellington witnessed a powerful display from England’s batting and bowling units. Despite the gusty winds of Cook Strait and a spirited century from New Zealand’s Tom Blundell, England’s victory was never in doubt.
New Zealand faced an uphill task with two almost impossible objectives — chasing a target of 583 or surviving nearly nine sessions for a draw. Their hopes were crushed early, losing four wickets within the first 14 overs of the innings. While Blundell fought back with a brilliant century, the rest of New Zealand’s batting lineup crumbled.
Blundell’s Valiant Effort
Tom Blundell was New Zealand’s standout performer, scoring a hard-fought 115 off 96 balls. His counterattack included 13 fours and 5 sixes, reminiscent of Nathan Astle’s iconic innings in Christchurch in 2002. Blundell stood firm amid the collapse, forming a solid partnership with Daryl Mitchell before going all-out attack alongside Nathan Smith.
He reached his fifth Test century but failed to prolong the resistance, getting caught after attempting an ambitious scoop. Ben Duckett made an incredible effort at slip, juggling the ball before holding on to the crucial catch. Blundell’s innings was undoubtedly a personal milestone, especially after struggling with form in recent Tests.
England’s Bowling Brilliance
England’s bowling attack delivered a clinical performance. Here’s a quick look at the key contributions:
- Chris Woakes: Claimed Devon Conway and Kane Williamson with exceptional seam movement, unsettling New Zealand’s top order.
- Brydon Carse: Impressive with his pace and control, dismissing Tom Latham with a stunning reflex catch.
- Ben Stokes: Finished off the lower order with his signature short-ball strategy, taking three wickets.
- Shoaib Bashir: Contributed with the crucial wicket of Blundell, supported by Ben Duckett’s stunning fielding effort.
New Zealand’s top four were dismissed before lunch on Day 3, leaving the hosts reeling. Woakes set the tone by dismissing Devon Conway, and moments later, he claimed the big wicket of Kane Williamson. Carse’s pace continued to rattle New Zealand, and rain delays only postponed the inevitable.
Joe Root Shines with Another Century
Joe Root’s masterclass was on display as he hit his 36th Test century. His innings was a mix of class and flair, with his famous reverse-ramp shot bringing up the milestone. While Root celebrated his century with his trademark smile, his innings ended two balls later, but the job was done.
Root’s knock gave England a massive 533-run lead before Ben Stokes declared the innings, allowing the bowlers ample time to finish the job.
Key Takeaways from England’s Win
- First Test Series Win in New Zealand Since 2008: England finally broke a long-standing record, ending a 16-year wait for a series win on New Zealand soil.
- Tom Blundell’s Century: While England dominated, Blundell’s 115 was a heroic display of skill and grit, giving New Zealand fans a moment of pride.
- Joe Root’s Brilliance: Root’s 36th Test century reaffirmed his status as one of the best Test batters in the world.
- Bowling Attack on Point: England’s bowlers were relentless, with Woakes, Carse, and Stokes all playing pivotal roles.
What’s Next for England and New Zealand?
This emphatic win gives England significant momentum heading into their next series. For New Zealand, it’s back to the drawing board as they reflect on missed chances and the need to rebuild their form.
With England’s aggressive “Bazball” strategy in full swing, they continue to showcase fearless, result-driven Test cricket, making them a formidable force on the world stage.