Jacob Bethell said he would have asked to bat at number three on his Test debut had he not received the “surprise” invitation to do so from England.
The 21-year-old scored an unbeaten 50 from 37 balls, including the winning runs, in the first Test in Christchurch as England beat New Zealand by eight wickets.
Bethell had never fought above number four in his first-class career.
“To be honest, I would have asked for it,” Bethell said. “I enjoy catching up on the order, so I was really happy the opportunity arose.
“I’ve always wanted to be in the top four, so three is perfect.”
Bethell, who was originally on the New Zealand tour as a batsman, was set to make his Test debut following an injury to wicketkeeper Jordan Cox.
Ollie Pope, England's regular number three, stepped in as wicketkeeper. To balance his workload, Pope moved back to sixth, leaving the position to Bethell.
The Warwickshire man managed 10 in the first innings and didn't look out of place against the skilled New Zealand attack, even in difficult batting conditions.
In the second innings, with England trailing by just 104, Bethell missed eight fours and a six as England reached their target within 13 overs at Hagley Oval.
“It’s everything I dreamed of,” Bethell said. “It lived up to expectations. It was so much fun.”
“It was my first experience playing in front of crowded pitches, a pristine outfield, good pitches and against a good team, so it was great.”