James Anderson took career best figures of 6-42 before bad light stopped play with New Zealand on 96-6 on day two of the Third npower Test at Trent Bridge.

Notts duo Stuart Broad and Ryan Sidebottom had shared a partnership of 23 as England posted a first innings total of 364.

Broad hit nine fours on his way to his best ever Test score of 64, having been dropped by Brendan McCullum at second slip on 21, while Sidebottom reached 7 before New Zealand captain Vettori ended the innings by dismissing Monty Panesar leg before wicket.

Broad aired on the side of caution having reached 49 before finally striking a four to secure his maiden Test fifty.

“I don’t think I was nervous, there were just no balls for me to hit and I didn’t want to chance my arm,” said Broad.

“I’ve worked hard on my batting and it’s pleasing to get to 60 and for the team to get the highest first class score at Trent Bridge this year.

“We had quite a clear plan to watch our stumps and make them come to us.”

Anderson’s haul overshadowed economical returns from Broad, who had two maidens and conceded just ten runs in his five over spell, and Ryan Sidebottom who had one maiden and conceded 36 runs from 11.2 overs.

“Jimmy bowled fantastically well and hopefully me and Sid can follow up tomorrow,” said Broad.

“The important thing is that I have found good rhythm and the ball is swinging and I just need to get it in the right areas.”

All seats are sold for the third day’s play which begins at 11am.