New Zealand has battled to delay the inevitable but England eventually hurried to an eight wicket win in the first test and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

A sustained seam attack by Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse following a belligerent batting effort saw England on the verge of wrapping up the first Test at stumps on day three in Christchurch on Saturday.

Harry Brook was dismissed for 171 after leading England to a first innings lead before lunch on the third day of the first cricket test against New Zealand.

A sustained seam attack by Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse following a belligerent batting effort saw England on the verge of wrapping up the first Test at stumps on day three in Christchurch on Saturday.

England snared two quick wickets to have New Zealand battling to keep the first Test alive Saturday after Harry Brook's 171 gave them an imposing 151-run first innings lead. But when New Zealand found a way to make catches stick,