Joe Root honoured for reaching a hundred, then he goes and makes a hundred

Root was left in no doubt about how special his milestone outing was as he was treated to a selection of video messages from a host of friends, family, former players and famous faces on the eve of the first Test in Chennai.

As well as the 13 other living members of England’s 100-cap club, the late Sir Colin Cowdrey is the 14th, he was toasted by the likes of England football captain Harry Kane, singer Ed Sheeran, golfer Lee Westwood as well as several representatives of his beloved Sheffield United.

Stokes, Root’s vice-captain and close friend, was also on hand with a heartfelt speech at the commemorative cap presentation and by the time Root went out for the toss, it had all started to get the better of him and he spoke with an audible tremble.

Thankfully, his top-order colleagues batted well enough to give him time to compose himself and he walked off at stumps having hit a sublime 128 not out in a score of 263-3.

“I was a little bit emotional. I couldn’t even remember our team when they asked me about it,” said Root. “I was a little bit all over the place but thankfully when I got out there I knew it was business as normal and I had a job to do. The guys have made it very special for me and I really appreciate it.

“Last night, the guys actually put a little surprise together for me – some videos from some past players, some friends and family. Ben, in particular, stood up and said some really kind words.

“It did (inspire me). I think that should stay between the two of us and the group but Ben’s a fine human being and it was really nice of him to go out of his way to say some very special things that I will hold dear forever.”

Root’s knock followed 228 and 186 against Sri Lanka last month, but he lost Dom Sibley trapped leg before for 87 in the final over after they had put on 200 together.

Chris Waters Test match comment: Page 7

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