Atkinson five routs NZ, seals win for England: 1st Test, Day 4 (Lords)

Paceman Gus Atkinson took five wickets as England completed a comprehensive 115-run victory over New Zealand on the fourth morning of the opening Test at Lord’s, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Chasing 254 for victory, the visitors resumed on 55-5 but were unable to mount a meaningful challenge against England’s disciplined seam attack. Ben Stokes struck early to remove Devon Conway, while Atkinson ripped through the lower order to finish with a superb five-wicket haul as New Zealand were dismissed for 138.

The hosts’ success was built on an outstanding all-round bowling display across the match, with Ollie Robinson producing a memorable return to Test cricket to claim seven wickets and earn Player of the Match honours.

Debutant Emilio Gay also impressed with a composed second-innings half-century, providing vital runs in a low-scoring contest dominated by the bowlers. England now head to The Oval with momentum firmly on their side as they look to wrap up the series.

England 140 (Brook 56, Jamieson 5-62) and 226 (Gay 57, Smith 6-70) beat New Zealand 113 (Robinson 5-39) and 138 (Atkinson 5-30) by 115 runs.

June 2026.