Senior England batter Joe Root has been phenomenal in 2024, amassing 1470 in 16 matches. Against New Zealand, the 33-year-old struggled at first inning, but in the second innings of the Wellington Test, Root proved his worth, scoring his 36th Test century. In the 83rd over of the game, Root got himself into position to play a reverse scoop off William O'Rourke, and though he did not hit it clean, the ball went over the keeper Tom Blundell to the fence. At the other end, Ben Stokes was thrilled at the hundred as he began to celebrate before Root. Later on, both shared a laugh and hug as the former captain acknowledged the standing ovation from the Wellington crowd. JOE ROOT IN STYLE 😮‍💨What a way to bring up his century 💯 📺 Watch #NZvENG on TNT Sports and discovery+ pic.twitter.com/UOJVGBMfUi — Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) December 7, 2024 Meanwhile, Stokes remained not out at 49, as England declared on 427/6. They set a mammoth total of 583 runs, and New Zealand needed a brilliant start to get anywhere close to that, but the top order once again failed to impress, with the hosts being reduced to 59/4. Also Read | Ind vs Aus: 'You can see on TV,' Siraj made shocking claims on his banter with Travis Head Daryl Mitchell and Blundell later stitched a crucial partnership to save the hosts. Though, it did not last for long as Mitchell walked back for 32 runs. Blundell played after that and scored 115 runs off 102 deliveries. England bowlers, who initially looked menacing, struggled against the keeper-batter, who played aggressively. After his departure, the responsibility was passed on to Nathan Smith. However, the target was massive enough, and England won the game by 323 runs.