Australia wrap up convincing Test victory over New Zealand inside four days

New Zealand as they slumped to a 247-run defeat in the Boxing Day Test

Australia breezed to victory over New Zealand (Getty)

Tom Blundell’s 121 was the sole high point for New Zealand as they slumped to a 247-run defeat in the Boxing Day Test to Australia.

The tourists were set a demanding target of 488 for an unlikely win after Australia added 31 to their overnight score at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The end of Travis Head, bowled by Neil Wagner for 28, signalled the end of the Australia innings with Tim Paine declaring on 168 for five.

James Pattinson claimed three key wickets inside eight balls, Tom Latham falling for eight and Kane Williamson (0) and Ross Taylor (2) finishing their innings prematurely as New Zealand slumped to 35 for three.

Blundell’s resistance was the sole frustration for Australia as he started to run out of batting partners, Nathan Lyon snaring four wickets and the tail giving out at the end of the fourth day with Trent Boult unable to bat.