Batsman Joe Root says England can do "something special" by chasing 455 to beat New Zealand in the second Test at Headingley.

A draw would be enough to secure a 1-0 series win for England, who reached 44-0 before rain ended play shortly after lunch on day four.

"We've got a long batting order and we've got every opportunity," said 24-year-old Root.

"The key is to go out with a view to chasing them down."

If England reach their target it would be the highest successful fourth-innings chase in Test history, beating West Indies' 418-7 against Australia  in Antigua in 2003.

England's pursuit began after New Zealand declared their second innings on 454-8 on the fourth morning, leaving the hosts with more than five sessions to bat.

When the rain arrived, it looked to have boosted England's chances of earning a draw, but Root actually views the adverse weather as harming his side's chances of victory.

"Rain coming has made things a little bit harder because we had every intention of going out tomorrow with a view to winning the game," he said.

"We've got less time to do that now. There is quite a bit of work to do, but we've got an opportunity to do something special.

"We have to look at the first hour - make sure we get off to the best start possible.

"That will give us the best opportunity to set the chase up."

BJ Watling, who converted his overnight 100 into 120, says 98 overs on the final day is enough time for the Black Caps to win the match and draw the series.

"We're definitely backing ourselves to win the game," said Watling.

"We know England won't back down, so we have to come out strong and put them under some pressure."
(BBC)