Jack Leach has ‘learned a hell of a lot’ and thriving for England under Stokes

England’s Jack Leach takes a moment to relish his fifth wicket, of New Zealand’s Tom Blundell, during day four at the Basin Reserve. Photograph: Phil Walter/Getty Images

His work for the winter done – with the ball at least – a weary Jack Leach reflected on the progress he believes he has made.

Leach’s fifth five-wicket haul in Test cricket was vital to England’s cause, shutting down New Zealand’s second innings for 483 after a collapse of five for 27 by the hosts. It was primarily a case of endurance, the 61.3 overs he sent down dwarfed only by the 69.5 on a heartbreaking pitch in Barbados a year ago.