Root’s Record-Equalling Century Steers England to 358-7 on Day One
Root’s Record-Equalling Century Steers England to 358-7 on Day One: Joe Root’s 33rd Test century proved pivotal as England recovered from early setbacks to close at 358-7 on day one of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s. Root’s masterful 143, combined with a solid 74 not out from Gus Atkinson, rescued England after a shaky start, leaving the match finely poised.
Root’s innings was not without its challenges. On 11, he narrowly escaped being dismissed lbw, with the decision upheld on review due to umpire’s call. Then, at 99, he almost chopped onto his stumps, enduring 12 tense deliveries before reaching his century with a signature shot through third man. This landmark achievement saw Root equal Alastair Cook’s record of 33 Test centuries for England.
In a crucial seventh-wicket stand, Root and Atkinson added 92 runs against a tiring Sri Lankan attack. However, Root’s innings ended in an uncharacteristic fashion as he attempted a scoop off Milan Rathnayake, only to be caught out for 143. Atkinson, meanwhile, remained unbeaten, showcasing his talent with four sixes and guiding England to a respectable total alongside Matthew Potts, who contributed 20 not out.
Sri Lanka’s decision to bowl first under sunny skies appeared justified as they struck early blows. England found themselves in trouble at 97-3 by lunch, losing Dan Lawrence (9), Ollie Pope (1), and Ben Duckett (40) cheaply. Lahiru Kumara was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3-77, including the crucial wicket of Duckett, who was looking set before mis-hitting a reverse sweep.
Root, undeterred by the pressure, clipped his first delivery for four, but it wasn’t all smooth sailing. He had to contend with some testing bowling from Kumara, who nearly trapped him lbw. Harry Brook provided some support with a brisk 33 after lunch, but his dismissal, adjudged lbw to Fernando on umpire’s call, left England precariously placed at 130-4.
Jamie Smith and Root then stabilized the innings with a 62-run partnership, but Smith’s edge behind to Madushka off Rathnayake added to England’s woes. Chris Woakes followed shortly after, leaving England at 216-6 and Sri Lanka in a dominant position.
However, Atkinson, playing in only his second Test, justified his promotion to No. 8 with a composed and aggressive innings. His fifty, reached with a stylish cover drive, provided England with much-needed stability.
Root’s dismissal late in the day leaves the match delicately balanced. Sri Lanka, buoyed by their early success, will be keen to wrap up the tail quickly on day two and take advantage of what remain good batting conditions at Lord’s. England, meanwhile, will rely on their bowlers to deliver a strong response and maintain the pressure on the visitors.
