Joe Root believes his England side have set down a marker for the challenges ahead in 2021 after starting the year with a decisive first Test victory over Sri Lanka in Galle.

England’s schedule over the next 12 months represents a mouth-watering set of assignments, with home and away series against India, a likely visit from world number ones New Zealand and an Ashes trip next winter all on the cards.

And they inked an early win into the calendar by sealing a seven-wicket success over Sri Lanka, built around a double century from Root, a combined haul of 14 scalps from spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess and, eventually, a calm day-five pursuit of their 74-run target.

At 14 for three on the fourth evening there was still room for some old doubts to creep in, with the ball spinning dramatically and fielders crowding around the bat.

With the game taking place behind closed doors there was just one England fan able to enjoy the victory live, former web designer Rob Lewis who has remained on the island for 10 months since the initial series was postponed.

Upon reaching his double hundred Root gave him a wave as he looked on from Galle Fort and again sought him out at the conclusion.

“It’s an incredible story. All of the guys really appreciate him being there,” said Root.

“He was almost a beacon for everyone at home watching on the screens. At the end of the game I managed to have a little conversation with him over the phone. It’s a really interesting story and it was lovely for him to enjoy that moment with the rest of the group.”