Root delight as his 226 sets up England final day push

Joe Root could not hide his delight after a masterful 226 ended his run drought and gave England a much-needed boost in the second Test against New Zealand on Monday as they ended day four believing they can square the series.

It took a five-wicket haul for the tireless Neil Wagner to bring England's first innings to an end at 476, a lead of 101.

At stumps, New Zealand were 96 for two and needing to bat late into the final day although rain may yet have the last word with further showers forecast for Tuesday.

“It felt good,” a beaming Root said as he put a stream of low scores behind him.

“Once I got in and had the bit between my teeth I wanted to make it a real big one and try and get us in a position where we can force a result in this game.

“I know there's a bit of weather around but you just never know. It'll be one big last push from everyone to try and come away with a levelled-up series.”

Root said it had been a frustration more than a worry that he had gone 14 Test innings without a century but his return to form gave him confidence.

“It's nice to get back to scoring some big runs,” he said.

 

Root delight as his 226 sets up England final day push

Joe Root could not hide his delight after a masterful 226 ended his run drought and gave England a much-needed boost in the second Test against New Zealand on Monday as they ended day four believing they can square the series. It took a five-wicket haul for the tireless Neil Wagner to bring Englands first innings to an end at 476, a lead of 101. At stumps, New Zealand were 96 for two and needing to bat late into the final day although rain may yet have the last word with further showers forecast for Tuesday. It felt good, a beaming Root said as he put a stream of low scores behind him. Once I got in and had the bit between my teeth I wanted to make it a real big one and try and get us in a position where we can force a result in this game. I know theres a bit of weather around but you just never know. Itll be one big last push from everyone to try and come away with a levelled-up series. Root said it had been a frustration more than a worry that he had gone 14 Test innings without a century but his return to form gave him confidence. Its nice to get back to scoring some big runs, he said.