Ben Stokes, Alastair Cook star as England lead New Zealand by 295 runs

Published: May 24 2015 | 23:25

Last updated: May 25 2015 | 18:07

England lead New Zealand by 295 runs heading into day five of the first Test at Lord's, courtesy of fine performances from Ben Stokes and Alastair Cook.

Alastair Cook and record-breaking Ben Stokes starred as England established a 295-run lead at the end of play on day four of the first Test with New Zealand.

Stokes recorded the fastest century in a Test match at Lord's, reaching 101 from 85 balls, while Cook's unbeaten 153 has also boosted England's hopes of drawing first blood in the two-match series.

Englands Ben Stokes celebrates reaching his century during play on the fourth day of the first cricket Test match between England and New Zealand at Lord's cricket ground in London on May 24, 2015 © Getty Images

The duo, who went into tea with runs of 18 and 105 to establish a 127-run advantage at the end of the session, continued to menace on their return to the crease.

Stokes was taken out by Mark Craig after reaching his record ton, before Jos Buttler joined captain Cook in the middle but struggled to have the same impact, scoring 14 before being removed by Matt Henry - his sixth wicket of the Test.

Moeen Ali (19*) and Cook remain at the crease ahead of what could potentially prove a thrilling final day of the clash.