No fairytale farewell ton yet for Cook

Ex-skipper racks up 71 in first innings

Alastair Cook fell short in his attempts to score a century on the first day of his final Test match for England.

The former captain was dismissed for a dogged 71 after England opted to bat in the fifth Test against India at the Oval.

Cook battled his way to a 57th Test halfcentury and was undoubtedly eyeing a 33rd ton when he played on to Jasprit Bumrah in the evening session. Captain Joe Root and Jonny B air stow then both fell for ducks soon after to leave England 134 for four.

Cook’s innings occupied 190 deliveries and was at times tough going against some fine bowling from the tourists.

However, the Essex man served his country well in stands of 60 with Keaton Jennings and 73 alongside Moeen Ali (50) – before the hosts lost six for 48 in the evening session to close on 198 for seven after captain Joe Root had chosen to bat.

Despite the anticlimax of failing to reach three figures, it was a strong effort from the 33-year-old Cook, who had been the focus of much attention having decided to call time on his prolific 12-year international career.

He was afforded a series of tributes, with a commemorative cap marking his 161st and last appearance and the Indian team and umpires forming a guard of honour for his walk to the crease.

Cook said: “It is very kind of Virat and the Indians, but I was just focusing on the first ball. The reception I got was fantastic.”

Getty. Alistair Cook walks off after being dismissed at the Oval.