Steve Smith’s assessment of Australia’s rapid collapse in Delhi last year may resonate with Joe Root‘s response on day 4 in Visakhapatnam. Except for Ben Stokes’ casual running leading to being short at the striker’s end, Root’s atypical shot resulting in his dismissal was the lone surprising element in England’s second innings during the second Test.
This incident raised inquiries about the impact of ‘Bazball’ on England’s most technically adept batsman. Not too distant in the past, ‘Bazball’ emerged, with the Yorkshireman leading the charge.
In 2021, the 33-year-old excelled amidst England’s Test team challenges, amassing 1708 runs in 15 matches, nearly breaking Mohammed Yousuf’s enduring record. Despite a shift in approach, Root’s performance didn’t wane, and he managed to score three centuries during Ben Stokes’ initial summer as the full-time captain.
However, Root’s statistics in away Tests during the Ben Stokes era, except for the New Zealand tour, are not impressive. Does Root’s shot on day 4 in Visakhapatnam adhere to Bazball standards?
Steve Harmison accurately explains Bazball
Ex-bowler Steve Harmison explained England’s deep Test cricket strategy to ESPN Cricinfo, emphasizing that Bazball goes beyond just hitting sixes and fours; it’s about letting players showcase their best selves.
Despite Root enjoying himself in the Stokes era and adopting an aggressive style, with a strike rate of 75.01 since May 2022, it raises the question of whether the Yorkshire man may have gone a bit too far.
Root’s recent departure from his typical playing style contrasts his effective pre-Bazball approach. His assertive batting against Ashwin and Patel revealed determination, but an uncharacteristic hoick ended the innings.
Questions linger about his finger injury and strategic intent against Bumrah. Root must embrace his unique Bazball style to succeed, not necessarily emulate others. The focus should be on rediscovering his optimal pre-Bazball form, characterized by assured starts and excellence across conditions, vital for achieving challenging targets like 399 in Visakhapatnam.
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