Cricket: Black Caps wrap up convincing win

The Black Caps have taken a 1-0 series lead over Pakistan with a win against the hosts in Christchurch. Photo / Photosport

New Zealand wrapped up a convincing eight-wicket over Pakistan with over four sessions to spare in the first test at Hagley Oval today.

Chasing a meagre 105 for victory, New Zealand reached the target with two wickets down, with debutant Jeet Raval hitting the winning runs.

Raval finished on 36 and Henry Nicholls on 0, after captain Kane Williamson, having completed his 24th test 50, was caught sweeping behind square with the scores level.

Williamson's 61 overtook Raval's first innings 55 as the top score in a lowscoring contest.

The win in New Zealand's ninth in 54 tests against Pakistan, and sixth on home soil, the first since Dunedin in 2009.

Pakistan, who started the day at a parlous 129 for seven, leading by 62, were dismissed for 171, with seamer Sohail Khan the top scorer with a test-best 40.

Seamers Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner all picked up three wickets apiece.

New Zealand lost opener Tom Latham before lunch to Mohammad Amir, but Williamson was in good touch and Raval completed a highly encouraging debut.

His fellow debutant Colin De Grandhomme was awarded the man of the match award for his seven-wicket haul.

The second and final test starts at Hamilton's Seddon Park on Friday.