England have completed a clinical 8-wicket victory over New Zealand on Day 4, chasing down a target of 104 runs with reasonable ease. The win was built on solid contributions from both their bowlers and batsmen, as they took control after New Zealand's second innings faltered.
Starting the day with New Zealand’s second innings at 155/6, the final 4 wickets fell quickly on Day 3, leaving England a modest target of 104 to chase. New Zealand’s innings was lead by Daryl Mitchell, who made a defiant 84, had little to no help building a strong partnership.
Brydon Carse’s first test match 6-wicket haul 6/42 was the standout performance with the ball for England, supported by Chris Woakes 3/59 and Gus Atkinson 1/57.
By the time New Zealand's innings concluded, they had managed just 254 runs in 74.1 overs. With no further resistance from the tail, England were left with a target of 104 runs.
England started their chase but had 2 wickets early leaving Jacob Bethell and Joe Root at the crease.
By drinks, England had surged to 95/2 in just 12 overs, with Bethell 41 and Root 23 firmly in control of the chase.
In the end, Bethell, reached a debut 50, playing with aggressive intent, from just 37 balls. Root, helped the scorecard to tick over contributing an unbeaten 23* off 15 balls. The pair quickly added the required runs in only 12.4 overs to wrap up a clinical chase and secure an easy victory for England.
The victory was built on England’s dominant all-round performance: Harry Brook’s remarkable 171 in the first innings, Matt Henry’s 4 wickets, and a superb team bowling effort that dismantled New Zealand's chances in the second innings. New Zealand's numerous dropped catches did not help them at all.
This victory means England has secured a 1-0 series lead, leaving New Zealand to reflect on what was a disappointing performance, especially with the bat. England, on the other hand, will head into the second Test of the series with confidence and momentum to win the series in a cleansweep.
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