Joe Root's special ton seals Lord's Test win for England against New Zealand

Given the warmth of his ovation when he went out to bat on the first day of the Lord’s Test, Joe Root probably already had a good idea of where he stands in the affections of England’s cricket supporters.

Even after giving up the captaincy following a torrid spell in charge, goodwill towards him remains steadfast.

All the more so for a couple of important reasons now. Firstly, his first fourth-innings hundred in his 118-Test career carried England to a five-wicket win against New Zealand.

And, secondly, the fact he hurried the home side to it within 13.5 overs of play on Sunday meant all those who had made it to Lord’s were entitled to a 100 per cent rebate on their ticket price.

“We always get fantastic support and are always very grateful for that,” Root said after his match-winning hundred, which took him past 10,000 runs in his Test career.

“It was nice to see them get their money back today.”

Root’s ton gave England a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. It was their first match since he vacated the captaincy, with Ben Stokes – his former understudy – taking over.

It's been a while. That winning feeling