CRICKET: England opener Alastair Cook made an unbeaten century for the Lions as he continued his preparations for next month’s Test series against India.

The Essex batsman finished day one of the four-day match against India A in Worcester on 154 not out, with Nick Gubbins adding 73 and Dawid Malan unbeaten on 59.

And he added another 26 runs as he closed on 180 from just 268 balls at a strike rate of more than 67.

Cook struck 26 boundaries en route to the high score, which put the Lions in control.

Jamie Porter is also turning out for the Lions at Worcester.

> Essex Eagles return to action with another double-header this week.

Anthony McGrath’s men visit Gloucestershire on Friday (20) before hosting Hampshire the following evening. For tickets, visit essexcricket.org.uk.