James targeting Test spot after blasting England to T20 victory

JAMES VINCE stroked England to a comfortable opening T20 win in Christchurch to keep New Zealand winless over the visitors in 2019.

On the same ground that he hit a confident 76 in his last Test innings, Vince got to grips with the Kiwi bowling in a way no other player managed to seal a seven-wicket win.

And with there being a real possibility that Joe Denly’s involvement on the tour being over due to an ankle injury, Vince put up an early case to be considered as his Test replacement ahead of Jonny Bairstow.

The Yorkshireman was also in the runs with 35 as England overhauled New Zealand’s 153 before heading for Wellington for tomorrow’s second T20.

But after being dropped from the Test side, an immediate recall would leave him with no time to work on the areas he has been told he needs to.

Vince would be a ready-made replacement at No.3 for Joe Root’s side, if he could share the faith others have in him. “Bluey might have something to say about that!” said Vince when asked about his chances of stepping up. “I’ve said it before, although it is a different format, runs in an England shirt are always going to help you.

“It’s a good start and hopefully I can build on it and continue throughout the series.”

With so many first-choice players being rested for this tour, it is a golden opportunity for Vince.

His role at the World Cup was as a back-up batsman and when he filled in for the injured Jason Roy he failed to rise to the occasion.

But his innings here against the backdrop of the stunning Hagley Oval reminded everyone of his class.

“The side’s been so successful over the last three or four years, it’s a tough first XI to break into,” added Vince. “But any opportunities like this to push my case are great.”

There were England debuts for Pat Brown, who snared Ross Taylor, and Lewis Gregory.

Sam Curran completed his set of England debuts and for the first time in international T20s brothers opened the bowling with Tom at the other end.