A dominant performance in Wellington sees England secure a 323-run triumph, their biggest victory against New Zealand and their first series win in the country since 2008.

England stormed to an emphatic 323-run victory over New Zealand in the second Test at Wellington, sealing a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The win, achieved inside three days, showcased England’s dominance with bat and ball and marked their first away series triumph in two years.

Set a daunting target of 583, New Zealand crumbled under the relentless pressure of England’s bowling attack. Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse made early inroads, reducing the hosts to 59-4. Woakes’ figures of 2-20 were his best in the fourth innings of an overseas Test, while Carse’s precision accounted for another two wickets.

Despite the bleak skies and gusty winds, Tom Blundell provided a rare bright spot for the Black Caps with a spirited 115. The wicketkeeper launched a counter-attack, hammering Shoaib Bashir for four towering sixes. However, his valiant effort ended when he misjudged a sweep and was caught spectacularly by Ben Duckett, who sprinted from slip to secure the dismissal.

England’s bowlers kept up the momentum, with Ben Stokes dismantling the tail. The captain’s 3-5 marked his best Test bowling figures in over two years. New Zealand were bowled out for 259, handing England a commanding win—their largest in terms of runs against the Black Caps.

Earlier, England had solidified their position on Sunday morning, resuming their second innings at 378-5 with a 533-run lead. Joe Root completed his 36th Test century in signature style, executing a reverse scoop off pacer Will O’Rourke. Root’s innings ended at 106, shortly before England declared at 427-6, with Stokes unbeaten on 49.

The victory highlights England’s resurgence under Stokes’ leadership and sets the stage for a potential clean sweep in the final Test in Hamilton, starting Saturday. However, one concern lingers: Harry Brook, who starred with a first-inning 123, was sidelined from fielding due to a precautionary measure for a sore ankle.

With this series win, England have not only broken a 16-year drought in New Zealand but have also showcased their intent to dominate away from home