Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] During the recent Test match in Rajkot, Joe Root’s unconventional dismissal for 18, reverse-scooping Jasprit Bumrah to second slip, sparked a controversy among cricket fans.
Described by some as “the worst, most stupid shot in the history of England’s Test cricket,” Root faced significant criticism. This prompted teammate Ben Duckett to defend him, amidst commentary from veteran journalist Scyld Berry and former England captain Michael Vaughan who criticized the shot’s timing and its impact on England’s prospects in the series.
Despite the backlash, Duckett stood firm in support of Root, disappointed the shot didn’t yield runs but emphasizing Root’s exceptional skill and his right to take such risks.
“Rooty’s a freak: he does things a lot of us can’t do. In my eyes, that’s the same as playing a drive and nicking off to second slip. Rooty plays that shot so well. I’m sure those people weren’t saying that when he was hitting [Pat] Cummins for six in the summer,” Duckett stated.
He compared Root’s attempt to his own reverse sweeps, suggesting both contain similar risks and should not be judged differently based on outcomes alone. Duckett highlighted Root’s success with similar shots in the past, suggesting critics would have remained silent had the shot been successful.
“I’m just gutted it didn’t go for four or six. I think he’s earned the right to do that. He has played that shot so well. I think it’s exactly the same as me playing a reverse sweep and getting caught deep point,” Duckett added.
Duckett also pointed out India’s cautious strategy of sending Kuldeep Yadav in as a nightwatchman, despite a significant lead, as a sign of respect towards England’s batting capabilities. He remains hopeful about England’s chances in the match, advocating for their aggressive playing style and the potential for a turnaround if a few players get into form on the pitch.
“I think even sending in a nightwatchman when you’re 330 ahead shows that they’re slightly wary of us. We’re going to continue the way that we play, and if we get two or three blokes in on that pitch, scoring quickly, you never know what can happen,” he concluded.