Ian Botham has said that Ian Bell was "magnificent" during day one of England's first Test against West Indies.

Bell notched 143 as England set a score of 341-5 at the close of play.

"Ian Bell is what Jimmy Anderson is to the bowling attack – he's the senior player," Botham told Sky Sports News. "He was magnificent."

"He was disappointed to get out late on, as was Joe Root, but it was an excellent day for England – 34-3 at one stage they will be delighted with their situation.

"Bell and Root have been the two form players from England's point of view throughout the last year or so and again they dug in – got straight back into the groove and they were magnificent. It's a great combination."

The century was the 22nd of Bell's Test career.

Written by
Jonathan McIntosh