England reduces New Zealand to 39-6 in 1st test, Matthew Potts 3-8 on debut

New Zealand beat England when the teams last met in a test series in England last year

England's Test cricket team enjoyed a sensational start to its new era on Thursday after ripping through New Zealand's lineup to reduce the visitors to 39-6 at lunch in the first Test.

England pacer Matthew Potts took three wickets on his debut.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson won the toss at Lord's and chose to bat first. That worked out fine in the end for Ben Stokes, England's recently appointed captain, who said he would also have batted first.

At one stage the Kiwis were 12-4 after key batter Williamson was caught behind off Potts. The 23-year-old Potts is making his international debut in any format for England. He has 3-8 from eight overs.

James Anderson, 39, and Stuart Broad, 35 — the most prolific wicket-takers in English test history — showed they can still perform effectively at the highest level after being dropped for the recent tour of the West Indies.

Anderson (2-5), Broad (1-24) and Potts have equally shared the 24 overs so far. Colin de Grandhomme (3 not out), and Kyle Jamieson, who is yet to score, are at the crease. Tom Blundell (14) and Daryl Mitchell (13) are the only batters to have reached double figures. They were both bowled by Potts.

Lancashire spinner Matthew Parkinson was confirmed as Jack Leach's concussion replacement after the spinner was injured while fielding in the only setback for the hosts in a remarkable session.