North Sound, Antigua and Barbuda: Ian Bell's composed 143 was the cornerstone of England's revival from the unease of 34 for three to the considerable comfort of 341 for five at stumps on the opening day of the first Test against the West Indies on Monday.


English batsman Ian Bell celebrates scoring his century during day one of the first test match between West Indies and England at the Sir Vivian Richard Stadium in St John's, Antigua. Pic/AFP 

On the pitch at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua that lived up its well-established reputation as a featherbed, the 33-year-old right-hander respected the early excellence of a disciplined fast bowling attack before flourishing in the remaining two sessions of the day.