Away-day joy at last for Root
BY FRANK HAYNES JOE ROOT insists England’s first overseas Test win for two years will give the selectors a headache.
The English halted a 13-game winless streak on foreign soil with a 211-run defeat of Sri Lanka at Galle.
And skipper Root was thrilled to see so many players take starring roles.
Debutant wicketkeeper Ben Foakes was named man of the match for his crucial century while Keaton Jennings hit an unbeaten 146 and Moeen Ali posted match figures of eight for 137.
Sam Curran and Jack Leach also made a big impact, giving Root and the selectors plenty of food for thought ahead of the second Test in their three-match series.
The captain said: “It’s great to see guys come into the team and really take their opportunities.
“The way we played throughout, with everyone contributing, was pleasing.
“It’s great to see the strength in depth. We’ve some difficult selections ahead which I’m not complaining about. I’m going to enjoy that meeting.
“It is going to be tough but that’s what you want. You want lots of guys performing and to make those tough calls.”