England are through to the cricket World Cup semi-finals after a convincing win in their final group stage game against New Zealand.
Both sides would have secured their place in the knock-out stage of the competition with a win at Chester-le-Street.
But it was the hosts who emerged with the crucial victory after a 119-run defeat of the Black Caps.
Led by a second consecutive century by England batsman Jonny Bairstow, England reached 305-8 from their 50 overs after choosing to bat at the Riverside Ground.
New Zealand lost their openers early, before two run-outs left them floundering and they were all out for 186 in 45 overs.
The defeat leaves New Zealand looking over their shoulders as they could be caught by Pakistan, who play Bangladesh in their final group game.
England are certain to finish third in the standings, and will face either Australia or India in the last four at Edgbaston next Thursday.
The Black Caps are likely to be the other semi-final team, because it has a far superior net run-rate than Pakistan, who must beat Bangladesh to give themselves a chance.
Source : Sky News : http://news.sky.com/story/england-into-cricket-world-cup-semi-finals-after-convincing-win-over-new-zealand-11756136
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