Root knows how important it was to start the series strongly

England claimed a 227 run victory in Chennai over India in the first Test Match of the series and knows just how key it was for his side to get off to a fine start to the second leg of the Asian tour.

Root was a key part of this, scoring a double century in the first innings before also adding a vital 40 in the second innings as his side set up the victory.

The win was secured on the final day with James Anderson and Jack Leach particuarly brilliant with the ball and put a real statement out ahead of the next three matches.

Root spoke to Test Match Special about just how important it was that his side started well in this series.

“This win will be right up there. It was always important to start well, India will have been full of confidence on the back of their achievements in Australia and are at fine team at home but for us to perform like we did was exceptional.

“I don’t think we were were perfect, we could do things slightly better and that’s an exciting place to be.”

The sides will remain in Chennai ahead of the second Test Match of the series which begins on Saturday morning.

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