Joe Root Defends Unorthodox Shot Selection, Backs England on Attacking Cricket
England’s most trusted batsman Joe Root has defended his controversial shot selection throughout the ongoing Test series against India, insisting he will continue to play the way he believes is best for the team.
Root came under heavy criticism for a reverse-scoop dismissal in the third Test that triggered a batting collapse and ultimately a 434-run defeat for England. However, he bounced back with a crucial 122 in the fourth Test, albeit in a losing effort.
Speaking ahead of the fifth and final Test in Dharamshala, Root acknowledged the scrutiny surrounding his batting but remained resolute.
“I have high expectations of myself, and until the last Test, I was well below where I wanted to be,” Root admitted. “However, I tried to stay focused and play according to the situation in Ranchi. It wasn’t about flamboyance, but about building a partnership and maintaining calmness.”
He addressed his controversial dismissals, stating, “People will have their opinions, and I respect that. But I will continue playing the way I think is best for any given situation. No one understands my game as well as I do.”
Root emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in cricket. “I’m not perfect, and I will make mistakes,” he conceded. “But I always strive to improve and evolve. This game demands constant evolution, and I won’t shy away from taking calculated risks.”
While acknowledging his dismissal in the third Test could be questioned, he explained his thought process behind the shot. “It could have completely changed the game,” Root said.
“Getting rid of a key bowler like Bumrah could have put us in a much stronger position, especially considering the potential deterioration of the wicket.”
Despite England’s recent struggles, Root remains a firm believer in the team’s aggressive approach under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, nicknamed “Bazball.”
“There have been challenges,” Root said, “but I’m fully behind the positive approach we’re taking. We’ll learn from our experiences and come back stronger in the future.”
The fifth Test between India and England begins in Dharamshala on Thursday, with the series currently standing at 3-1 in favor of the hosts.
