Sun Dec 01 01:50:00 UTC 2024: ## England Thrash New Zealand in First Test Victory
**Christchurch, New Zealand –** England emphatically defeated New Zealand by eight wickets in the first Test of their three-match series at Hagley Oval on Sunday. Brydon Carse spearheaded England’s victory, claiming a career-best 6/42 in New Zealand’s second innings, restricting them to a paltry 254 runs. Chris Woakes also contributed significantly, taking 3/59.
Chasing a modest 104 for victory, England initially lost opener Zak Crawley early. However, the tourists swiftly chased down the target, showcasing their aggressive “Bazball” approach. Ben Duckett provided a fiery cameo of 27 runs before falling to an upper cut, while debutant Jacob Bethell impressed with an unbeaten 50, including eight fours and a six. Joe Root also contributed a quickfire 23*. The convincing win puts England in a commanding position in the series.
First Piper 