Birmingham Commonwealth Games: Kiwi Imogen Ayris takes bronze in women's pole vault final

Imogen Ayris has secured New Zealand's first athletics medal of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, winning bronze in the women's pole vault.

Ayris, 21, took third place in the women's pole vault on countback, after clearing 4.45m in one fewer jump than compatriot Oliva McTaggart, who finished fourth.

Australia's Nina Kennedy took the gold medal after clearing 4.60m, while England's Molly Caudery took home silver.

Ayris' ability to clear 4.35m and 4.45m in fewer attempts than McTaggart saw her take the bronze medal over her compatriot.

The Kiwi field's chances at medals were boosted before they even jumped, as England favourite Holly Bradshaw was forced to withdraw from the final with a hamstring injury.

Then, mid-competition, Canada's Alysha Newman - the reigning Commonwealth Games champion - was also forced to withdraw, leaving the field at just five.

As Canada's Anicka Newell failed to clear 4.45m, New Zealand was guaranteed at least one medal, with two athletes left in the final four. 

But all three of Caudery, McTaggart and Ayris failed three attempts at 4.50m, as Kennedy cleared 4.60m to take first place.