I note that there's a new antiques-themed daytime quiz show hosted by Fern Britton on a neighbouring television. Is there some sort of Random Daytime Quiz Show Generator that churns them out? Hales is churning them out too, he picks up a three off returning bowler Pradeep.

Image source, Getty Images

James Boswell: Only seen the highlights, but Hales looks in top nick. Needed to start this series well, good on him.

Greg Double: Don't think it's a coincidence that Alex Hales is batting well now everyone is focused on Nick Compton batting badly.  

Herath is rattling through his overs here. Root and Hales exchange a single apiece.

Phil Tufnell
Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

"A situation like this is a challenge for a spin bowler, but one you enjoy. A couple have gone past the edge of the bat, and someone like Hales is a bit flat-footed - you just want to tease him a little."

There was plenty of dissent from the pundit's sofa (and, it must be said, the BBC Sport cricket desk) when Alastair Cook elected to bat this morning, but I reckon it's turning out to be a good decision. Conditions are none-too-troublesome out there at the moment and this partnership looks really well set. Maiden from Mathews to Hales.

Geoffrey Boycott
Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

"I'm wondering how they can get out. Either they play an indiscreet shot, lose concentration, or somebody bowls a ball which hits a brick."

Hales picks up three with a flick through midwicket. Whisper it quietly, but even the venerable Herath isn't looking that threatening.

Geoffrey Boycott
Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

"It didn't look right, and he's given it not out... I think it's desperation, as runs are coming steadily. That's a poor review."

Well, it hit Root on the thigh, and even though he was a long way back, it's no surprise to see the ball was going over the top. That looked a rather hopeful review, in truth.

Now, a change of bowling from Mathews - and it's to his own brand of medium pace that he turns to. Has he snared the golden goose? He's hit Root on the pad, and despite the initial not-out verdict, Sri Lanka want another look...

That's handsome from Root - unfurling a very compact drive when Herath pitches just a touch too full. It scoots across the outfield for four. It's hard not to note the contrast between Root, who looks so easy and always seems to be keeping his score ticking over, and Compton, who somehow manages to go very slowly while seemingly clinging on for dear life - like a man being dragged behind a milkfloat.

Geoffrey Boycott
Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

"I've not seen any gremlins here. He got one to turn to Root, and a few balls have nipped back but been bowled too short."

Root plays a nice drive through the covers which the pacy Siriwardana does well to keep to two. Hales gets the same reward for a square cut.

Image source, Rex Features

James Gutteridge: This is the Alex Hales everyone was hoping to see in Tests, could be our David Warner. Minus the whole punching opposition batsmen in bars though.

Ian Bett: So the search continues for a reliable opening partner to stay in alongside Hales?  

Herath is greying around the temples in his dotage but still looks to be packing plenty of muscle under that sweater - the type of man, I imagine, who doesn't have any trouble getting the top of the jar of picked onions. Hales pushes into the off side and that's the only run from this over.

Moff: Very good knock so far Hales, keep going!

Ian Bradley: Master illusionist Root yet again going at virtually a run a ball without appearing to play any shots.

Hales flicks nicely into the leg side for two. Eranga, dare I say it, is looking about as threatening as a muzzled poodle.

Geoffrey Boycott
Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

"Well played, lad. He likes to attack, that's alright. He's got 40-odd runs before he tried it. He's earned the right."