LONDON: New Zealand crushed England by 253 runs in the second Test at The Oval on Sunday, levelling the three-match series at 1-1 after fast bowler Matt Henry produced a match-winning performance with 11 wickets.
Resuming the fifth day needing seven wickets to complete victory, New Zealand wrapped up England’s second innings in just 48 minutes. Chasing an imposing target of 463, England were bowled out for 209 as Henry claimed 6-29 to finish with match figures of 11-109.
The visitors dominated the contest from the opening day, with centuries from Glenn Phillips and Henry Nicholls laying the foundation for a comprehensive victory. The result marked a strong response from New Zealand after their 115-run defeat in the series opener at Lord’s.
Phillips scored 100 in New Zealand’s first innings of 391, while Nicholls struck 121 in the second innings. Rachin Ravindra contributed 76 and Daryl Mitchell added 68 as New Zealand posted 362 in their second innings to set England a daunting fourth-innings target.
England’s chase never gained momentum despite a fighting 77 from Joe Root and 58 from Harry Brook. Henry ripped through the batting order, taking four wickets without conceding a run in a devastating two-over spell, while Kyle Jamieson supported with 3-61.
Earlier, Henry had also starred with the ball in England’s first innings, claiming 5-80 as the hosts were dismissed for 291 in reply to New Zealand’s first-innings total.
England entered the match with a significantly altered lineup after making five changes, including the introduction of three debutants. Captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were omitted after reportedly breaking a team curfew while celebrating England’s victory in the first Test at Lord’s.
Both players are expected to be available for selection for the series decider at Trent Bridge in Nottingham next week.
The victory ensures the series remains finely balanced heading into the final Test, with both sides seeking to secure a series win in Nottingham.