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Cape Town - Centuries by James Taylor and Ben Stokes helped propel England to an impressive 470 for 5 on the first day of their warm-up match against a SA Invitation XI at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.
England captain Alastair Cook had no hesitation in opting to bat after winning the toss, but the visitors were soon reeling at 10 for 2 after both Cook and his opening partner, Alex Hales fell for 2 and 8 respectively.
Nick Compton and Joe Root then began a rebuilding phase before Root was caught behind off Andile Phehlukwayo for a rapid 28, with England's form batsman only dealing in boundaries.
James Taylor joined Compton at crease and the pair shared in a partnership of 99 before Compton fell just after lunch for patiently crafted 58.
Ben Stokes, England’s premier all-rounder was next in, and after a slowish start, he began to increase the run-rate significantly.
Taylor brought up his century in the 62nd over off 137 balls. He was closely followed by the aggressive Stokes in the 66th over.
Taylor and Stokes retired on 114 (14 fours and a six) and 158 (23 fours and 5 sixes) respectively with all England's remaining batsmen spending some valuable time at the crease.
Scores
England 470/5 after 88 overs
Taylor 114 (retired)
Stokes 158 (retired)
Compton 58
Mnyaka 3/66
Dala 1/47
Phehlukwayo 1/62
