New Zealand has battled to delay the inevitable but England eventually hurried to an eight wicket win in the first test and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Brydon Carse bowled England to a commanding victory in the first Test against New Zealand, underlining his status as a rising star in Christchurch. Carse caught the eye on unhelpful pitches in Pakistan in his debut series, but showcased the full extent of his match-winning abilities with a 10-wicket haul in Christchurch.

Harry Brook and Brydon Carse star for England in Christchurch with century and 10-wicket match haul respectively; Ollie Pope and Ben Stokes return to form after struggles in Pakistan, while Jacob Beth