Testing time as Root makes his selection

England captain Joe Root is relishing the prospect of a difficult selection meeting after the Test team’s first overseas victory for more than two years.

Root’s side finally halted a 13-game winless streak on foreign soil with a commanding 211-run defeat of Sri Lanka at Galle.

Debutant wicketkeeper Ben Foakes was named man of the match for his crucial century and tidy glovework but Keaton Jennings’ meticulous 146 not out in the second innings and Moeen Ali’s best match figures on the road, eight for 137, were equally indispensable.

Sam Curran and Jack Leach also made noteable contributions, leaving Root to balance post-match celebration with considerations for next week’s clash in Kandy.

“It’s a really special feeling and it’s obviously great to see guys come into the team and really take their opportunities,” said Root after Sri Lanka were dismissed for 250.

“It’s great to see the strength in depth in this squad of players. We’ve some difficult selections ahead which I’m not complaining about. I’m going to enjoy that meeting.”

There was a gentle reminder too, that egos will not be massaged.

“It’s about performing as a group, not making it about yourself; being involved in the XI,” he said.

Foakes suggested he would be ready to buy into that ethic, even hinting he would stand aside willingly if a fit-again keeper Johnny Bairstow was preferred.

The very idea of benching a man who played the Sri Lankan conditions with such poise might seem frivolous, but having joined the trip as injury cover he is making no demands.

“If I (only) play one game, I’m quite happy with that one,” said the Surrey man. “The big thing for me is just making my debut, being able to say you’re an England Test cricketer.”

Whatever solutions Root and head coach Trevor Bayliss come up with in the coming days they will be hoping they lead to a rare series victory on the road.