England captain Joe Root's brilliant innings of 143 helped his team recover from a difficult position to reach 358/7 on Day 1 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's. Root's century, his 33rd in Tests, ties him with Alastair Cook for the most Test centuries at Lord's by an England player. He also becomes the active player with the most Test centuries, going past Steve Smith and Kane Williamson. Root's elegant cover drive after reaching his century was a highlight of his innings, which helped England get out of a spot of bother and take control of the match.
England's Resurgence Under Joe Root's Leadership
England's resurgence in Test cricket under the leadership of Joe Root has been a testament to the team's resilience and determination. Root, appointed captain in 2017, has led England to a string of impressive victories, including a recent triumph over Sri Lanka at Lord's.
Root's Historic Innings
In the second Test against Sri Lanka, Root played a pivotal role in England's recovery from a precarious position. Batting at number three, Root scored a magnificent 143, his 33rd Test century. This innings surpassed Alastair Cook's record of Test centuries at Lord's by an England player and made Root the active player with the most Test centuries, surpassing Steve Smith and Kane Williamson.
Root's innings was characterized by his trademark elegance and composed strokeplay. His cover drive after reaching his century was a moment of pure brilliance, solidifying his status as one of the best batsmen of his generation.
England's Dominance
Root's century helped galvanize England, who went on to dominate the match. The team eventually declared their first innings on 358/7, giving their bowlers a significant advantage. Sri Lanka struggled in response, being bowled out for 183 in their first innings.
England extended their lead in the second innings, setting Sri Lanka a challenging target of 466. The visitors were unable to mount a serious challenge and were eventually dismissed for 242, handing England a resounding victory.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is Joe Root's Test batting average? Root's current Test batting average is 49.24.
2. How many Tests has Root captained England in? Root has captained England in 65 Tests.
3. What is England's win-loss record under Root's captaincy? England have won 27 Tests, lost 26 Tests, and drawn 12 Tests under Root's captaincy.
4. What is the highest individual score by an England batsman at Lord's? The highest individual score by an England batsman at Lord's is 273 by Walter Hammond in 1928.
5. What is England's highest-ever Test score? England's highest-ever Test score is 903/7 declared against Australia at The Oval in 1938.
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