Hometown favourite Joe Root struck his maiden Test century to keep New Zealand at bay on an even second day of the second Test in Leeds.

Batting brightly on his home ground of Headingley, 22-year-old Root reached 104 in England’s 7-337 on Saturday.

It was first day of play after Friday’s wash out.

The tourists, who are 1-0 down in the two-Tests series following a 170-run loss at Lord’s, will be frustrated they aren’t in a stronger position after being sent into the field.

They reduced England to 4-146 before Root put on 124 for the fifth wicket with fellow-Yorkshire youngster Jonny Bairstow (64).

Trent Boult removed them both with the second new ball, along with Stuart Broad for a duck as New Zealand took 3-16 in four overs but a belligerent, unbeaten 37 from wicketkeeper Matt Prior kept the hosts in decent shape.

New Zealand’s four-pronged seam attack swung the ball for much of a day bathed in sunshine.

Boult (3-48) impressed late although the pick of the bowlers was Tim Southee (1-72) who beat the outside edge numerous times. Neil Wagner took 1-73, Doug Bracewell 1-83 and part-time spinner Kane Williamson 1-49.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum pouched five catches in his first Test as designated wicketkeeper for more than three years although he appeared to finish the day in some discomfort.

England were reduced to 3-67 at lunch after Southee removed Nick Compton (1) in the fourth over and dangerous pair Jonathan Trott (28) and captain Alastair Cook (34) fell in consecutive balls.

Root dominated the second session, continuing his success against New Zealand on this tour. He scored 179 for the England Lions in a warmup match while his double of 40 and 71 was crucial in the low-scoring Test at Lord’s.

Playing in his sixth Test, his innings last 167 balls and included nine fours.