Alastair Cook scores half-century in final Test match for England

Alastair Cook scores half-century in final Test match for England

Alastair Cook scored a half-century as he made a confident start to his final Test match for England.

The former captain was unbeaten on 51 as England reached 106 for one during the afternoon session of the first day of the final Test against India.

Cook had been the focus of much attention before the game having decided to call time on his prolific 12-year international career at the end of the series.

Cook was given a guard of honour as he walked to the crease at The Oval
Cook was given a guard of honour as he walked to the crease at The Oval (John Walton/PA)

The long-serving opener was given an early chance to bat after current skipper Joe Root won the toss.

He did not disappoint, comfortably surpassing his previous best score of the series, 29, and he was undoubtedly eyeing a 33rd Test century.

He was, however, grateful for a reprieve on 37 when, shortly after lunch, Ajinkya Rahane put down a straightforward chance at gully off Ishant Sharma.

Jennings returned another low score
Jennings returned another low score (John Walton/PA)

Jennings, in need of a big score as he battles to establish himself in the side, had looked relatively untroubled before turning Ravrindra Jadeja to KL Rahul at leg slip.

Moeen Ali, again batting at number three, was dropped by Virat Kohli at third slip while on two – a difficult chance – but pushed on to move to 21 not out.

Jadeja came in as India, trailing 3-1 in the series, made two changes to the team, replacing Ravi Ashwin. Debutant batsman Hanuma Vihari came in for all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

England were unchanged although Jonny Bairstow was due to reclaim wicketkeeping duties from Jos Buttler having recovered from a broken finger.

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