England roll through New Zealand to claim Test series in Wellington

England’s cricket team secured a historic series win in New Zealand, defeating the hosts by 323 runs in the second Test at Basin Reserve in Wellington. This victory gave England their first Test series win in New Zealand since 2007-08.

New Zealand, chasing a daunting target of 583 runs to win, struggled from the start, losing four wickets in the opening 14 overs. However, Tom Blundell fought hard, scoring a brilliant century to delay the inevitable defeat. Blundell hit 13 fours and five sixes in his 115-run innings, but his effort was not enough to prevent New Zealand's loss. Their second-highest score was just 42 from Nathan Smith at number eight.

England had already taken a commanding lead, and they made sure to bat just long enough for Joe Root to score his 36th Test century. After Root reached three figures, the team declared at 427 for 6, giving them time to bowl out New Zealand. Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse started the attack before Ben Stokes wrapped things up with three wickets, all from short balls aimed at the tail end of New Zealand’s lineup.

Blundell, whose century came after a tough period of low scores, was the standout for New Zealand. He found a strong partner in Daryl Mitchell and later teamed up with Nathan Smith to score 96 runs off just 82 balls. Blundell’s century came from 96 balls, a much-needed personal achievement after a disappointing 22 months in which he had struggled for runs.

Despite Blundell’s efforts, New Zealand’s innings came to a close when he was dismissed, with Shoaib Bashir taking the key wicket. Ben Duckett made a fine catch at slip to end Blundell’s resistance. After that, it was only a matter of time before the match was wrapped up.

England’s bowlers, led by Woakes and Carse, took full advantage of the conditions. Woakes struck early, dismissing Devon Conway, and then removed New Zealand's captain Kane Williamson. Carse also picked up key wickets, including Rachin Ravindra, before the rain began to fall.

Earlier in the day, England had resumed with a massive lead, and Joe Root made sure to reach his hundred before declaring. Root’s innings had been smooth and controlled, but he took an unusual route to his century, tumbling over while attempting his trademark reverse ramp shot. He eventually edged a ball shortly after reaching three figures.

With this win, England not only clinched the series but also confirmed their dominance in New Zealand. The hosts never looked like they would chase down the massive target, despite Blundell’s heroic efforts.

For New Zealand, it was a disappointing end to the series, but Blundell’s century provided some solace in a match dominated by England's superior play. The victory also marks a significant achievement for England, who had not won a Test series in New Zealand for over 16 years.