Bell celebrates after scoring his 22nd Test century

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

England batsman Ian Bell scored a magnificent century to give his side the upper hand over the West Indies on the first day of the first Test in Antigua.

Bell was well supported by batsman Joe Root, who made 83, and all-rounder Ben Stokes, who finished unbeaten on 71.

West Indies captain Denesh Ramdin would have been delighted with his decision to bowl first after Jonathan Trott, England skipper Alastair Cook and Gary Ballance were all dismissed in quick succession.

With the West Indies in complete control early on, Bell and Root stabilised the innings with a 177-run partnership, during which both batsmen brought up their half-centuries, before Root was clean bowled by Jerome Taylor.

Root’s excellent knock of 83 came off 133 balls and included 11 boundaries.

Root hit 11 boundaries during his innings of 83

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Bell and Stokes kept the runs flowing with a 130-run partnership, during which Bell registered his 22nd Test century and Stokes his half-century, before Bell was caught behind off the bowling of Kemar Roach.

Bell’s dazzling innings of 143 came off 256 deliveries and included 20 boundaries and a six.

Following Bell’s dismissal, Stokes only faced one more over from Taylor before stumps was called.

Stokes ended up finishing on 71 off 80 balls, which included 10 boundaries and a six.

Stokes hit some glorious shots during his unbeaten knock of 71

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Taylor and Roach picked up two wickets apiece, while Jason Holder claimed one.

England ended day one on 341/5 and will continue batting tomorrow at 10:00 local time or 14:00 GMT.