Friday 12 March 2010

Captain Cook and Pietersen Impress in Chittagong


Alistair Cook became only the fifth player to score a century on his debut as captain for England, on day one of the first test in Bangladesh.

He finished the day on 158 not out and will hope to push on for the double ton, putting England fully in control.

But not to get over-excited, Bangladesh (no disrespect) are not the greatest test side in the world and on a flat pitch it was maybe expected that big scores would be recorded.

Nevertheless, for such a young player to take the captaincy and all the pressure that comes with it, it was a great innings.

Also, a great innings from Kevin Pietersen who has struggled for form recently after returning from injury and has had trouble answering his critics. England's iconic number 4 hit 99 runs from just 135 balls before being cleaned bowled one short of his century..disaster. He hit 15 fours and one six, showing his explosive style is still there, great news for England.

BBC Sport Quote: "The innings made a mockery of his recent struggles, with a renewed confidence against left-arm spin no doubt the most pleasing aspect for England team director Andy Flower."

It was a puzzling decision by Bangladesh to put England into bat first after winning the toss on such a good batting wicket, but England will have to work hard to finish the innings in a strong manner before putting in a shift in the field.

The hosts' record of never having won a Test at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium could well be set to continue after a disappointing day for them.

Photo By: BBC Sport

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