England’s premier batter in Test cricket, Joe Root, has been facing a tough time in the ongoing five-match series against India. With Rohit Sharma and his team holding a 2-1 lead, Root’s form has been a cause for concern for the visitors. Root, who was the leading run-getter when England last toured India for a Test series in 2021, has failed to replicate his performance this time around.
In six innings across the first three Tests, Root has managed just 77 runs at an average of 12.83, including a highest score of 29. His struggles have been compounded by some questionable shot selection, leading to criticism from various quarters.
However, England captain Ben Stokes has come out in support of Root, citing his incredible record in Test cricket. “Joe Root’s scored nearly 12,000 runs, I think we can leave the decision-making and ‘why’ with Joe,” Stokes said, highlighting Root’s stature in the game.
Stokes defended Root’s dismissal in the first innings of the third Test in Rajkot, where Root was caught playing a reverse scoop off Jasprit Bumrah. Stokes praised Root’s intent to unsettle the bowler and change the field, despite the unconventional shot choice.
“Jasprit Bumrah has got him out a couple of times this tour early on. And I thought Joe was looking really, really good at the crease, and he sensed that as a time to put something different back onto Jasprit and make him maybe think about something,” Stokes explained.
Stokes’ support for Root underscores the faith the team has in their experienced batter, despite his recent struggles. As England prepares for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Root will be hoping to rediscover his form and contribute significantly to his team’s efforts to level the series.
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