England Crush New Zealand to Secure Series Victory

News Desk 

Islamabad: England delivered a dominant performance to defeat New Zealand by 323 runs in the second Test on Sunday, clinching the series with one match remaining.

Joe Root’s century laid the foundation as England declared at 427-6 before their bowlers dismissed New Zealand for 259 on day three in Wellington. This marks England’s first Test series win in New Zealand since 2008.

Despite Tom Blundell’s valiant 115, the hosts struggled to chase the daunting 583-run target. England’s aggressive bowling, led by skipper Ben Stokes (3-5) and Chris Woakes (2-20), sealed the victory in the final session.

Root’s stylish 106, highlighted by a reverse lap shot to reach his 36th Test century, set the tone for England. His 100-run partnership with Stokes off just 13.2 overs added to the visitors’ commanding position.

New Zealand’s response faltered early as Woakes removed Devon Conway for a duck and Kane Williamson for four. Blundell and Nathan Smith (42) provided some resistance, but England’s attack proved relentless, with spinner Shoaib Bashir and Brydon Carse contributing key wickets.

The final Test begins in Hamilton on Saturday.