Daily roundup - Old habits and a star debutant

First Test - Day One

Thank god for the time difference between the UK and Sri Lanka. As a result of the 4am start I was lucky enough to miss England’s top order collapse that left them 113/5 at lunch while I lay in bed. While Burns was unlucky to be caught down the legside, Stokes and Root both played poor shots and Moeen showed why he shouldn’t be at number 3 by getting a golden duck. On the other hand, Jennings actually played rather well for his 46.

Instead what I witnessed was another superb performance from England’s lower order, and in particular Ben Foakes, who delivered with a superb 87* on debut. The saying ‘old habits die hard’ seems particular relevant for the days play, with England continuing their theme of losing top order wickets before the lower middle order launches a rescue mission.

With Foakes the ever present, England had 50 partnerships for the 6th, 7thand 8thwickets as they dragged themselves to 321/8. Sam Curran once again came to the party with a breezy 48, and Adil Rashid delivered a delightful cameo of 35 to carry England to what looks like a reasonable total.

The perfect balance of controlled aggression was in evidence as they picked up on the bad balls and showed strong technique when looking to defend. Curran in particular making the most of the bad balls by launching 3 sixes.

Ben Foakes has consistently been on the radar for England over the past couple of years, and today is evidence of exactly why. Never have I seen a debutant for England look so assured on their debut, especially in foreign conditions which made it so remarkable. Everything about Foakes’ innings oozed class, his footwork against the spinners was exceptional and he looked calm and collected throughout. Hopefully he gets through to a well-deserved hundred tomorrow morning.

Overall, England can be pleased to be 321/8 given the events of the first session and have assured they will put on a competitive total, something they’ve continually struggled to do overseas. The pitch does look good for batting and they will be looking to get comfortably beyond 350 tomorrow to put Sri Lanka under real pressure.