England breaks record with the fastest run chase in Test history.© @ESPNcricinfo
Christchurch, New Zealand – England etched their name in cricketing history with a breathtaking performance in the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, achieving a record-breaking run chase in just 12.4 overs. The emphatic eight-wicket victory showcased England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach and marked the fastest-ever 100-plus run chase in Test cricket.
Chasing a target of 104 runs, England’s lineup displayed unmatched dominance. Despite the early loss of Zak Crawley for one run, Ben Duckett’s quickfire 27 off 18 balls, Jacob Bethell’s unbeaten debut knock of 50* off 37 balls, and Joe Root’s brisk 23* off 15 balls sealed the win with a remarkable run rate of 8.21—the highest-ever in a successful chase of 100 or more.
The previous record for the fastest 100-plus run chase was held by New Zealand, who took 18.4 overs to chase down 109 against Bangladesh at the same venue in 2017. England’s achievement is the first time in Test cricket’s 147-year history that a team has maintained a run rate exceeding 8 in a successful chase of this magnitude.
England’s victory also marked their fifth consecutive win in a Test series opener, extending a streak of dominance in the format since their loss in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston earlier this year.
The thrilling contest began with England winning the toss and electing to field. New Zealand, led by fifties from Kane Williamson (93) and Glenn Phillips (58), posted a first-innings total of 348. England’s Brydon Carse and Shoaib Bashir impressed with four-wicket hauls each, keeping the Kiwis in check.
In response, England surged ahead with a commanding 499, thanks to Harry Brook’s scintillating 171 and critical contributions from Ollie Pope (77) and captain Ben Stokes (80). England secured a 151-run lead despite New Zealand’s efforts to fight back in their second innings.
Kane Williamson (61) and Daryl Mitchell (84) resisted, but Carse’s sensational 6/42 and a ten-wicket haul in the match ensured New Zealand could only muster a 103-run lead. England’s chase was a masterclass in aggressive cricket, with debutant Bethell and Root steering the team home comfortably.
Carse was anointed Player of the Match for his career-defining performance, including his ten-wicket haul and a vital 33* in the first innings.
England now leads the three-match series 1-0, with the second Test set to commence in Wellington on December 6. Fans can expect another enthralling encounter as England continues their quest for another series triumph.
