Joe Root has admitted that it was a relief to find form on the opening day of the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Lord's.
The Yorkshire batsman guided the hosts to 344-5 with an unbeaten century, and he was left in no doubt how important it was to start the summer impressively after struggling with the bat during the disastrous tour of Australia.
"It was obviously a tough winter, not just on a personal front but as a team so it's obviously pleasing," Root told Sky Sports News.
"I enjoy playing here. You can't beat the first Test of the summer at Lord's and the atmosphere was fantastic.
"Nothing beats Test cricket in my eyes and the challenge of trying to score runs in the first Test of the summer after the winter we had was one I relished."
Root, who finished the day on 102 not out, will begin day two alongside Matt Prior (76*).
