Rajkot: England were expected to struggle in India after managing a 1-1 Test series draw in Bangladesh. However, the Three Lions put up a fine show on Day 1 of the first Test between India and England, at Rajkot, on Wednesday.
Star batsman Joe Root told Sky Sports after the end of Day 1, that the fiasco in the second Test in Dhaka, which England lost to Bangladesh, helped the Three Lions prepare for the difficult challenge in India.
“Having the chance to learn from that last hour in Dhaka has helped me, Moeen (Ali) and Stokesy (Ben Stokes) as well,” said Root.
Root, who stabilised the England innings after putting up a 179-run partnership with Moeen Ali, praised his fellow batsman.
“The way Moeen started was very good, and he balanced his innings wonderfully,” said Root. “The wicket was nice to get the momentum going. It was important to get an early start in the first innings.”
Root also went on to express his delight at the fact that he has scored his first century in Asia. He said, “To start the tour with a 100 is pleasing. You’ve got to make sure you always make (such) contributions in every Test.”
