Captain Courageous Joe Root's brilliant 180 not out and his fifth century of 2021 (two in England too) has given England a first innings lead for the first time in six months.
Great support from Rory Burns and England's second best batsman in this team Jonny Bairstow has helped Joe to now average more than 50 in tests. A remarkable feat considering he plays half his tests in England in far more bowler friendly conditions. I thought Moeen and Buttler looked good before getting out but it's the greater experience in the middle order that made the difference. No more Lawrence, Crawley and Pope's but experienced hands, those who can switch from white ball to red ball having not played red ball for months. The different stance Bairstow adopts for tests and one days indicative of them being two different gsmes., He's thought about it and now gets over across with his back leg making him play straighter more often in tests.
This is still a very understrength England line up without our second best batsman and world class star Ben Stokes', Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and even Ollie Stone but still one that's proved competitive. So an encouraging batting display which gives them a chance to push for a win.
