England are flying and...

CRICKET

ALASTAIR COOK hit an unbeaten half-century to put England firmly in control of the First Test at Lord’s.

The former captain had made only three runs in the first innings against South Africa on his return to the rank and file.

But on another sundrenched afternoon in north London, he showed i n the second that he’s quite happy being one of the boys again with a knock of 59 which helped the home side to a 216-run lead.

Keaton Jennings was the only wicket to fall – he was caught behind by Quinton De Kock for 33 off Morne Morkel.

Gary Ballance, in desperate need of runs on his return to the team, ended on 22 as England moved to 119-1. most exciting batsman to watch but there can be no doubts he is one of the finest England has produced.

Team-mate James Anderson (below) did not disagree.

“South Africa bowled really well,” he said. “And to be honest, you wouldn’t want anyone else for that position when you need to graft through an evening session to put us in a good position. “There weren’t many freebies for the guys to hit, they had to really knuckle down and concentrate, and it was spinning out of the rough for the l efthanders as well.

“He does seem more r el axed around the dressing room. “It’s probably a bit of a strange week for him because there’s a new captain here and I’m sure he’s going to be missing the captaincy to an extent.

“But at the same time it’s a great opportunity for him to show people he is still happy to score runs and we’re just happy he is out there churning them out for us.

“It puts us in a strong position and hopefully we can build on his partnership with Gary.” In truth, it was a day which lacked any real drama and, arguably, the most colourful moment came five minutes before play.

Legendary Test Match Special broadcaster Henry Blofeld, who will retire at the end of the summer, was given the honour of ringing the famous Lord’s bell and he did so with gusto, resplendent in a bright green suit.

South Africa, having lost Theunis De Bruyn late on Friday, began the day 244 runs behind England on 214-5 with Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada at the crease.

Impressive

Rabada scuttled along to 27, adding 18 runs to his overnight total, before Liam Dawson had him caught behind while Bavuma soon followed, caught by Ben Stokes off the spin of Moeen Ali for 59.

De Kock was impressive as he raced to 50 off 36 balls — the second- fastest Test halfcentury recorded at Lord’s.