Sawt Falasteen - England on course for big win over NZ after Root hits century

The beleaguered home side's top order succumbed to the new ball in Wellington, limping to lunch on day three still 524 runs short of the unrealistic target of 583 they need to win and square the three-match series.

Daryl Mitchell was at the crease on 20 and Tom Blundell was yet to score.

Earlier, Root posted his 36th century before being dismissed for 106, prompting a declaration half an hour after the resumption, with England 427-6.

Blustery conditions didn't bother England's seam attack, with veteran Chris Woakes (2-12) bowling cleverly into a strong wind.

He clean-bowled out-of-form opener Devon Conway without scoring before claiming the prized scalp of Kane Williamson for four, caught behind.

Brydon Carse (2-11) dismissed Tom Latham for 24 with a sharp, one-handed caught and bowled, before enticing Rachin Ravindra (6) into a loose shot which was snicked.

Earlier, England captain Ben Stokes was 49 not out when he made his declaration, having put on 100 for the sixth wicket with Root off just 13.2 overs.

They added 49 to their overnight score, allowing time for Root to complete a classy ton.

Root, who resumed on 73, reached three figures with a spectacular reverse lap shot which flew over wicketkeeper Blundell's head off paceman Will O'Rourke.

The 33-year-old was dismissed later in the same over, edging a catch to Blundell.

England won the opening Test in Christchurch by eight wickets.

L.AbuTayeh--SF-PST