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A sublime display of batsmanship and the enduring brilliance of a seasoned bowler. It was a day firmly in England's grasp as they set the tone at Lord's against New Zealand.

Joe Root's elegant century, combined with James Anderson’s hostile opening spell, saw England finish the first day of the first Test in a commanding position. The match, which began Thursday at the hallowed Lord's Cricket Ground in London, saw New Zealand struggle after being put in to bat, eventually succumbing to England's relentless attack.

Anderson, still bowling with venom at 41, made early inroads, removing both openers cheaply to leave New Zealand reeling. New Zealand were eventually dismissed for a modest total, a score that never truly threatened England's ambitions. England, in response, lost an early wicket, but Root, displaying textbook technique, constructed a masterful innings. Watching the ball onto the bat, his strokeplay was a delight, peppered with boundaries and punctuated by judicious defence.

Root's innings was a lesson in Test match batting. He negotiated the corridor of uncertainty with aplomb, leaving deliveries that demanded respect and punishing anything loose. He reached his century with a flick off his legs, a moment celebrated by a rapturous crowd. His ability to consistently find the gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking, frustrating the New Zealand bowlers. He looked every bit the player who has become a modern great. Can New Zealand find a way to disrupt his rhythm?

This strong showing from England offers a glimpse into their evolving approach to Test cricket. Ben Stokes' captaincy has instilled a renewed sense of belief and attacking intent within the team. But it's the blend of youthful exuberance and experienced campaigners like Root and Anderson that is proving to be a potent force. Their dominance on day one sends a clear signal to the rest of the cricketing world.

The pressure is now firmly on New Zealand. They will need to regroup quickly and find a way to take wickets early on day two. Their bowlers need to discover some consistency and exploit any assistance the Lord's pitch might offer. They must also be wary of England's tail, which has shown a propensity for wagging in recent times. A lot will depend on how they bowl yorker length.

England, on the other hand, will be looking to consolidate their position and build a substantial lead. If Root can continue his innings and find support from the lower order, they could bat New Zealand out of the game. They will also be hoping that Anderson and Stuart Broad can continue to exploit the conditions and put the New Zealand batsmen under sustained pressure. But cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties.

What will tomorrow bring? Will New Zealand mount a fightback, or will England continue their march towards victory? The next few days promise to be a fascinating contest.