Cricket news: Joe Root praises bowlers after England rout Pakistan at Headingley

England captain Joe Root has praised his bowlers after they helped secure a commanding victory over Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley.

Pakistan were dismissed for 171 and 135 either side of England’s 409 as the hosts’ bowling unit performed well on a worn pitch.

Ollie Robinson (5-51) and Josh Tongue (5-46) led the attack in the first innings before Robinson (3-29), Tongue (3-43) and Jofra Archer (3-50) wrapped things up in the second.

The Test-match action now moves to Lord’s, with play getting underway at 11am UK time on Thursday 27 August.

Bowlers praised

After the win, Root told Sky Sports: “I don’t think our bowlers understand well that they complement each other in these conditions and what they’re capable of doing.

“It’s really nice for them to see that and to start the series like that.”

On player of the match Robinson, Root added: “I thought Robinson was brilliant.

“The fact that he’s still as effective in the second innings, having bowled 18 overs – and his understanding of what his requirements are in different phases of the game is important.

“For him to be effective as the pitch changed throughout and to consistently keep asking difficult questions is a really good sign for us.”

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Exciting victory

Asked if the victory was extra special given England’s chaotic past few months, Root stated: “It’s always important to win a Test match.

“You’re playing for England, right? It’s what you set out to do every time you walk out on to that field.

“It’s more the fact that we delivered on everything we spoke about – that’s the most pleasing thing and the most enjoyable thing about all of it.

“There’s also an understanding that this is one game; there’s going to be other challenges and different things to manage.

“That’s the exciting part, and it’s taking the confidence from this and being skilful to deal with that next thing, which will be Lord’s.”

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Fleming focus

Root also revealed that new England head coach Stephen Fleming, who will only take charge after the Pakistan series, has been in regular contact with the team.

“He’s kept tabs on things,” Root said.

“It’s just been great to have him on the end of the phone – and I can speak to him as much or as little as I like.

“It’s great that he’s very invested already in what we’re trying to achieve and there’s been constant communication with [interim head coach] Marcus Trescothick and me.”

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