London June 14 2022: Jonny Bairstow’s astonishing century led England to a stunning win in the second Test against New Zealand which sealed a series victory.
On a breathless final day at Trent Bridge, Bairstow made the second-fastest century by an England batter in Test cricket as the hosts strolled to what should have been a challenging target of 299 with 22 overs to spare.
Bairstow’s outrageous hitting took him to three figures from 77 balls, only just missing the record of 76 balls that has stood for 120 years.
He was eventually out for 136 from 92 balls, having clubbed 14 fours and seven sixes in front of a delirious full house.
It was left to captain Ben Stokes, who ended 75 not out, to complete the win.
It sealed a remarkable turnaround from New Zealand posting 553 after being asked to bat. It is the highest score England have conceded in a Test they have gone on to win since 1894.
England take an unassailable 2-0 lead, vindicating the freewheeling approach of new captain Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
The home side can complete a clean sweep in the third and final Test at Headingley next week.
