England batsman Jonathan Trott has defended captain Alastair Cook's decision to delay their declaration on day four of their second Test against New Zealand.

Cook reached 130 to help England extend their lead over the tourists, but chose to allow his side to bat on until they had set New Zealand a huge target of 468 to win.

The England captain could have declared earlier to allow his bowlers more time to bowl the Kiwis out, but six wickets before the end of play left England needing just four tomorrow to claim the victory, and Trott believes that Cook got his tactics just right.

"I think we got it spot on to be honest," said Trott.

"We set out to get the total we wanted and we achieved that in the time we wanted. To get six wickets as well is a good day of Test cricket, I think.

"We're in a good position; we need four wickets tomorrow to win a Test match and win a series."

New Zealand ended the day on 158-6.