'Amazing Journey': England's Root Proud As He Prepares For His 100th Test

England captain Joe Root said he had been on an "amazing journey" as prepared to play in his 100th Test. Root will become just the 15th England cricketer to reach the landmark when he leads the side o

"It's a bit more single-minded, knowing if I bat for a long period of time I make big runs and it's obviously going to benefit the team. It sounds simple and you might ask why has it taken you 99 games to figure it out? But I'm just desperate for us to do well collectively and that's naturally how I've always tried to think about the game."

England is set to have all-rounder Ben Stokes and fast bowler Jofra Archer back in their side for the first of four Tests against India after the pair were rested from the Sri Lanka series.

"You know what Ben is like, he gets the ball in his hand, try to take it out. If he gets on a bit of a roll and feels like he can really turn a game, it is very difficult to get the ball back." Root said of his vice-captain and close friend's willingness to bowl.

"I also had the displeasure of facing Jofra in the nets and he bowled at the speed of light. He looked in great rhythm. If he can harness that into this series he's going to have great success."