Following an instrumental century on the fourth day of the LV= Insurance Test against India, England captain Joe Root praised the role the Trent Bridge support played in driving his side forward.

“I really enjoyed the atmosphere at Trent Bridge, and I just want to take the opportunity to thank everyone in the crowd for their support,” said a smiling Root, who hit 109.

The fluent right hander was both serenaded to the crease and given a standing ovation upon leaving it, as his innings steered England from a deficit of 49 to a lead of 179.

The host nation ultimately set their visitors 209 to win, with India closing on 52-1 in pursuit.

Root views the current situation his side find themselves in heading into the fifth day positively, saying: “The result is definitely there for the taking, and we’ve just got to make sure we’re at them in the morning now.

“If we can get a couple of early ones tomorrow, and exploit how difficult it can be to bat on the final day, then it’s a funny old game.”

The skipper admitted that today was a day of seeing the fun side of the game, with his passionate celebrations crowning a spine tingling moment for the gathered capacity crowd.

“Yes, batting might be difficult at times, it might be tough, but it’s enjoyable,” said Root. “Whenever you bat, you have to remember to enjoy it, and that takes some of the pressure off.

“We looked to rotate the strike and make sure our boundary options were clear throughout, and in the context of the game, the hundred felt very big.”

Root remains steely in his determination to succeed in his role as captain, and believes that the answer lies in a simple strategy.

“We just have to make sure our objectives are clear,” explained Root. “Simply put, this summer, our objectives are to win five Test matches against India.

“Personally, I want to win every Test match, and in every game and every series, it’s really important that you take every opportunity.

“We have some strong characters in our dressing room, and I’m confident they will be able to do that.”

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