TOPSPIN AT THE TEST

LAWRENCE BOOTH at Lord’s

JOE ROOT’S runs were needed after another top-order collapse. When England fell to 49 for three, it was the 38th time in 57 Test innings that they had lost their third wicket for fewer than 100 runs.

WHEN Morne Morkel bowled Ben Stokes on 44 with a no-ball, it was the 12th time he had been recorded taking a wicket after overstepping.

YOU have to go back 10 Lord’s Tests to find the last time a team lost after batting first, when England beat West Indies in 2012. Between that game and this one, the team batting first have won seven and drawn on two occasions.