LONDON: Jonny Bairstow on Tuesday hammered the second-fastest century by an England batsman on the final day of second Test to script a stunning win against New Zealand which sealed a series victory.
England strolled to what should have been a challenging target of 299 from 72 overs.
Bairstow’s outrageous hitting in the spell after tea took him to three figures from 77 balls, only just missing the England 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.
“The enjoyment of every minute out on the field was incredible,” said captain Ben Stokes.
Stokes, 31, who ended 75 not out, to complete the win with 22 overs to spare. England had scored at almost a run a ball.
The hosts can complete a clean sweep in the third and final Test at Headingley next week (June 23-27).
