OLD TRAFFORD

(fourth day of five): New Zealand won toss

England 202 & 297-4 v New Zealand 381 & 114 - England win by six wickets

England have beaten New Zealand by six wickets to the win the second Test with more than a day to spare.

Paul Collingwood hit the winning runs to secure what appeared at one stage to be an unlikely victory. They now lead the three-match series 1-0.

Earlier Andrew Strauss (106) has hit his twelfth Test hundred to bring England to within touching distance of victory. But Strauss and Kevin Pietersen (42) fell in quick succession after lunch and it was left to Collingwood and Bell to ensure England completed their fifth-best run chase in Test history, and their highest at Old Trafford.

Michael Vaughan, the England captain, paid tribute to Strauss after the opener's century.

"When you are chasing that kind of total you always have stages when the opposition is on top," he said. "To come back and show that character and resistance we hope we can build on that. Andrew Strauss is growing with confidence all the time. It's a tremendous 100 and one that got us over the line."

Vaughan also hailed his side's tenacity, adding: "The pitch allows both teams to play that kind of cricket. This morning the first session was always going to be critical. To win by six wickets on that pitch is special, it shows a lot of mental strength. We do enjoy playing at Old Trafford. It creates an exciting game of cricket."

The victory was all the sweeter for Strauss given his struggles over the last 12 months, which included him being dropped for the tour of Sri Lanka.

“I had a long period of time where I had played in every Test match and I’d probably forgotten a little bit how lucky I am and how enjoyable it is to play a Test match for England,” he said.

“If ever I need a reminder of that, this Test match is a great reminder. Wins like this are just so special and when you’re sitting by a fireside when you’re retired, these are the sort of days you’ll really remember.”

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