England were 357 for five against South Africa at stumps on the first day of the first Test at Lord's, here.
Joe Root marked his first innings as England captain with a brilliant 184 not out.
Moeen Ali was 61 not out, having helped Root add an unbroken 167 for the sixth wicket.
England had collapsed to 76 for four before lunch but a stand of 114 between Root and new vice-captain Ben Stokes (56) turned the tide.
Vernon Philander led South Africa's attack with three wickets for 46 runs in 16 overs.
This is the first of a four-Test series.