England player ratings after New Zealand whitewash as new era gets off to flier

England have enjoyed a brilliant start to life under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes as the pair making an immediate impact to lead their side to a brilliant 3-0 series victory over New Zealand

England have whitewashed World Test Champions New Zealand after wrapping up a 3-0 series victory with a stunning seven-wicket win at Headingley.

After winning just one of their last 17 Test matches, England have turned things around in dramatic fashion under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes. Playing a new brand of positive cricket, England successfully chased totals of over 250 runs to win all three Tests, the first time a side has ever managed to do so in a single series.

“It has gone really well,” Stokes said. “To walk away with a 3-0 series win against the best team in the world is a pretty special start. It’s a huge testament to the team. Over these three games they’ve been phenomenal.”

Here are the England player ratings…

Alex Lees – 4

Made an encouraging contribution at Trent Bridge with his first Test fifty, but failed to capitalise and build on it.

Zak Crawley – 2

Looks like Test cricket is getting harder and harder for him. His attempt to hit his way into form also failed. Under pressure.

Ollie Pope – 7

Showed that he has the temperament and technique to be a Test No.3, but still has areas to tighten up. A positive series.

Joe Root – 9

Still head and shoulders above all others with a bat in his hand. A master at work although his slip catching needs attention.

Jonny Bairstow – 10

Produced three of the most destructive and memorable innings by an England batsman in a row, just incredible.

Ben Stokes – 8

A mixed bag on the field with bat and ball, but he rode his luck and made his biggest impact as captain calling the shots.

Ben Foakes – 5

Had a telling impact on the win at Lord’s with the bat to show promise, but faded thereafter until Covid got him.

Jamie Overton – 7

Totally turned his only Test on its head with the bat rather than the ball. Is capable of success with both at this level.

Matthew Potts – 8

Terrific find for England. Was a constant threat throughout all three games and never let his pace or his head drop.

Stuart Broad – 6

Had a golden moment at Lord’s with a team hat-trick during his over, but rarely threatened to dominate.

Jack Leach – 8

Got better and better from concussed at Lord’s to man-of-the-match at Headingley. Looks like a changed man.

Sam Billings – 5

Did his job as a Covid substitute at Headingley competently and professionally.

James Anderson – 7

Still the best in the business when fit and able, but will miss more and more games as the years catch up.

Matt Parkinson – 4

Stepped in as a concussion substitute and enjoyed his first taste of Test cricket.