CRICKET
Joe Root reacts to ‘Stupidest shot in Test cricket history’ claims
Joe Root has reacted to the criticism of his shot-making. The star batter scored a hundred in the first innings against India in the 4th Tests in Ranchi on the first day. Many applauded him for playing sensibly in the middle and believed it to be the reason behind his success. There were many who criticised him for reverse-scooping the bowlers in the third Test.
Ever since Bazball took over, Root has been playing such shots often. Against some of the best bowlers in the world like Neil Wagner, Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, and others, Root has played such shots. However, in the ongoing series, Root has not had great success. While playing the reverse scoop, he got dismissed which looked ugly. Many former cricketers regarded it to be the ‘Stupidest shot in English cricket history’.
During the press conference, Root opened up about the same and felt that he had two minds about playing the shot. He added that the shot was not bad but he was unfortunate in not executing, as it kept a bit low. Root believed that things could go that way at times. As England had a brilliant couple of days in Ranchi, Root was happy with the performance of the team.
England in control of the Ranchi Test
“I must admit it did briefly cross my mind, but on that wicket, it’s not a great option. If you look at the previous wicket [in Rajkot], it wasn’t as bad, but it was unfortunate it kept a little bit low. But that’s how it goes sometimes,” Root said in the press conference. The star batter scored an unbeaten hundred and helped England to post 353 runs in their first innings.
Shoaib Bashir was the star of the show on the 2nd day claimed four scalps and reduced India to 219/7 at the end of the 2nd day of the Test. Root felt happy for himself for helping the team with some useful contributions. He also praised Bashir for claiming four wickets in the match so far and hoped to have a good game.