Ben Stokes hit his sixth test century on the first day of the second test at Headingley. Though the visitors did a commendable job by restricting Joe Root led England to 258.

Joe Root hit his twelveth consecutive fifty in test innings and equalled AB Devilliers record while STokes got out after scoring a ton. Kemar Roach (4-71) and Shannon Gabriel (4-51) emerged to be the main wicket tackers for the Islanders.

The performance could have been much better if not some missed catches.  Stokes was dropped twice, on nine and 98, and Root, who went on to score 59, also put down on eight. Lady Luck was on the side of the English Batsman.

England’s former captain Alastair Cook was the first to depart, edging Gabriel to Kyle Hope at third slip having made 11. Next came Tom Westley who just lasted for 11 balls. England was 37 for three at one point of time.

What was a top order failure was well handled by Stokes and Root to neglect a shameful display. Chris Woakes added 23 to help Stokes through to his century off 122 balls. England’s last three wickets fell for just 10 runs. Earlier West Indies had 19 wickets falling on a single day.

England is one point ahead of West Indies in the three-match test series.