Root ton restores England pride against India

LEEDS, Sept 5 (AFP): Joe Root marked his first one-day international at his Yorkshire home ground with a century as England tried to avoid a series whitewash against India at Headingley Friday.

Root's 113 was the cornerstone of England's 294 for seven.

World champions India had already won the series by going 3-0 up and it seemed they would restrict England to another meagre total when the hosts slumped to 117 for four off 29 overs after losing the toss.

But Root and Jos Buttler (49) repaired the damage with a fifth-wicket partnership of 108 and England's bowlers had even more of a target to defend thanks to recalled all-rounder Ben Stokes's unbeaten 33.

For England, it was initially an all-too-familiar story as India's pacemen make early breakthroughs.

The runs then dried up against India's spinners as wickets continued to fall.

England found themselves 39 for two off seven overs.

Alex Hales mistimed a pull off recalled paceman Umesh Yadav and holed out to midwicket for four.

Innings England 294 for 7 (Root 113, Buttler 49) v India.