It was an all-too typical knock from the Kiwi skipper, easing to a 46th Test half-century with consummate class but failing to go on and add to his nine centuries.

BBC: England poised for series victory

Cook was one of only two players to score 30-plus in England's first innings in the fourth Test - a score he matched in the second innings - but despite a knock of 95 at Lord's, he averages only 28.6 in the series.

BBC: England quintet face county stint

He swung the bag as if to test its weight, as if it might or might not be heavy enough to knock Con over, to change her mind about a couple of things.

NEWYORKER: Brooklyn Circle