England delivered a dominant performance in the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, claiming an eight-wicket victory in record-breaking fashion. The match featured a stunning debut from 20-year-old Jacob Bethell, who announced his arrival on the Test stage with a sensational half-century.
Jacob Bethell’s explosive 50 off just 37 balls, featuring eight boundaries and a six, made him the second-fastest debutant to score a fifty in Test cricket history. Only New Zealand’s Tim Southee, who hit a 40-ball 77 in 2008, has achieved a faster fifty on debut. Bethell’s innings not only underlined his immense potential but also helped England seal a comfortable win in just 12.4 overs, setting a record for the fastest-ever 100-plus run chase in Test history.
Bethell, already a rising star in limited-overs cricket, was promoted to number three in the batting order—a decision that paid off spectacularly. His maturity and aggressive approach have solidified his place in England’s lineup, and his IPL signing with Royal Challengers Bengaluru for ₹2.6 crore earlier this year highlights his growing reputation in world cricket.
Chasing a target of 104, England made history with their blazing approach, finishing the chase at a run rate of 8.21. The effort surpassed New Zealand’s previous record of chasing 109 runs in 18.4 overs against Bangladesh at the same venue in 2017. Despite the early dismissal of Zak Crawley for one, contributions from Ben Duckett (27 off 18 balls), Joe Root (23* off 15), and Bethell ensured a swift and emphatic finish.
England laid the foundation for their victory with a strong all-round performance. Winning the toss, they chose to bowl first and restricted New Zealand to 348 in their first innings. Kane Williamson (93) and Glenn Phillips (58) were the top scorers for the hosts, while Brydon Carse (4/64) and Shoaib Bashir (4/69) led England’s bowling attack.
In reply, England posted a commanding 499, spearheaded by Harry Brook’s spectacular 171. Ollie Pope (77) and skipper Ben Stokes (80) provided crucial support, giving England a commanding 151-run first-innings lead.
New Zealand’s second innings was highlighted by fighting half-centuries from Williamson (61) and Daryl Mitchell (84). However, Brydon Carse’s career-best 6/42 decimated their lineup, giving him a ten-wicket haul for the match. Chris Woakes chipped in with three wickets, ensuring New Zealand was bowled out for 254.
Brydon Carse was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance, which included a ten-wicket match haul and a crucial unbeaten 33 in England’s first innings.