Joe Root was hailed as England’s “Mr Dependable” by new captain Ben Stokes after his predecessor’s unbeaten century helped launch the all-rounder’s reign with a five-wicket win over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s on Sunday. 

Root made 115 not out as England chased down a target of 277 with wicketkeeper Ben Foakes (32 not out) providing excellent support in an unbroken partnership of 120. Victory, achieved with more than a day to spare, saw England to just their second win in 18 Tests.