India Women vs Sri Lanka Women Live Streaming: When and where to watch 1st T20I

England secured a tense victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle, but not without a serious examination of their batting mettle. Joe Root’s magnificent century ultimately proved the difference.

The match, played at the Galle International Stadium from July 10-14, saw England overcome a shaky start to chase down a target of 268, winning by five wickets. It was a far from straightforward affair.

Root’s performance was the linchpin of England’s success. Statistically speaking, his contribution cannot be overstated. But let's not overlook some worrying trends in the English batting lineup.

Root’s scores across both innings paint a clear picture of his dominance:

First Innings: 134 (Strike Rate: 62.6)
Second Innings: 88 (Strike Rate: 58.3)

When you look at the data, it highlights the disparity between Root and the rest. No other England batsman managed a century in either innings. Jonny Bairstow contributed a useful 47 in the second innings. But the top order faltered, leaving Root to shoulder the responsibility. He was taking guard with alarming frequency.

Sri Lanka's bowlers, particularly Prabath Jayasuriya, troubled the English batsmen throughout the match. Jayasuriya's figures were impressive.

First Innings: 5/82 (Economy: 3.28)
Second Innings: 4/108 (Economy: 3.92)

His ability to extract turn and bounce from the Galle pitch made him a constant threat. Several batsmen were beaten all ends up.

England's bowling attack, led by James Anderson, performed adequately. Anderson’s experience proved invaluable.

First Innings: 3/45 (Economy: 2.50)
Second Innings: 2/38 (Economy: 2.00)

The other bowlers, however, lacked consistency. This allowed Sri Lanka to build crucial partnerships, extending their lead. The numbers don't lie: England's bowling needs greater penetration.

The victory provides England with valuable points in the World Test Championship standings. But the reliance on Root is a concern. Can the other batsmen consistently deliver under pressure? That is the question.

This match exposed vulnerabilities in England's batting lineup. A middle-order collapse in the first innings highlighted their susceptibility to spin. Getting their eye in proved difficult for many. While Root’s brilliance masked these issues in this game, similar performances from the top order will be required for continued success.

What's next? The second Test in Colombo will offer another opportunity for England to address these concerns. A repeat of the batting frailties could prove costly. And Sri Lanka will be eager to level the series. But England will feel confident. Root is in fine form. Winning the first test gives them momentum.