ENG vs NZ: England register historic feat after three successful chases against the Black Caps

England have defied all odds in the Test series against New Zealand. Reaching one of their lowest points in 2021, the English Lions have come back roaring against the reigning World Test Champions. The hosts completed a historic 3-0 clean sweep on Day 5 of the final Test match. In the process of doing so, Ben Stokes and Co. have reached a historic landmark.

England successfully chased down a score of 296 runs on the final day after Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root made an absolute mockery of the Kiwi bowling attack. England have become the first side in Test cricket history to successfully chase down totals of 250 or more three times in a single series.

The hosts claimed a five-wicket victory in the first Test at Lord’s after chasing 277 runs. Joe Root starred with an unbeaten knock of 115 runs, with Ben Stokes chipping in with 50 odd runs. But, perhaps, the highlight of the series came in the second Test, when Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes helped England chase down 299 runs in just 50 overs.

Jonny Bairstow entered the T20 mode, scoring 136 runs off 92 balls. It was similar in the final Test, as Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow safely guided the hosts over the line on Day 5. This is a massive step in the right direction for English red-ball cricket under the reign of Ben Stokes.

Joe Root pipped his teammate, Jonny Bairstow, to claim the Player of the Series Award for England. The former skipper amassed 396 runs in six innings at an average of 99.00, with his highest score being 176 in the second Test match. Jonny Bairstow was unlucky to miss out on the award, given that he scored 394 runs, with a strike rate of just over 120.

Meanwhile, Daryl Mitchell can undoubtedly have his head held high. The Kiwi batter finished as the top run-getter of the series, scoring 538 runs at an average of just over 107. He played his heart out in every fixture and was unfortunate to end on the losing side. Tom Blundell will be another Kiwi player who should be proud of his efforts. The wicket-keeper scored 383 runs at an average of 76.60.