In their first Test since losing the Ashes 4-1 in Australia, England claimed a much-needed victory over New Zealand on Sunday, winning by 115 runs on a tricky Lord's pitch. The hosts needed less than a session on day four to bowl out the tourists for 138, with Gus Atkinson taking 5-30 to seal a 1-0 series lead.
Resuming on 55-5 chasing 254, New Zealand's resistance was short-lived. Josh Tongue struck early, trapping Tom Blundell lbw. A brief counter-attack from Glenn Phillips and Devon Conway added 53, but after captain Ben Stokes induced a miscue from Conway, wickets fell quickly. Atkinson dismissed Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, and Matt Henry to finish the match.
The win provides a boost for England after their dismal winter in Australia. Despite a poor pitch that made batting difficult and some sloppy fielding from New Zealand, England's seam attack proved too strong. The second Test at The Oval starts on 17 June.