Joe Root‘s struggle with the bat persisted as he was dismissed for just 18 runs on Day 3 of the third Test against India in Rajkot on Saturday, February 17. The significance of the England star’s dismissal extends beyond the low score due to the manner in which he lost his wicket.
The former captain attempted his signature reverse scoop against Jasprit Bumrah in the 40th over of the innings. However, Root failed to connect properly, resulting in the ball not clearing the wicketkeeper and slip cordon. The edged shot found Yashasvi Jaiswal at second slip.
Jaiswal had to juggle a bit as the ball came to him quickly, but he managed to secure it, ensuring India’s early breakthrough. You can watch the video here:
Root could only increase his overnight score by nine runs, having survived the final moments of Day 2. The dismissal to Bumrah in this instance is the third time he has fallen to the pacer in the current series and the ninth time in his career overall.
Joe Root’s total runs in the series stand at 70 from five innings
Root’s recent dismissal is another instance of him losing his wicket in an unconventional manner in the series, following an earlier dismissal to a wild slog. Criticism has emerged regarding Root’s attempt to match the aggressive tempo of other Bazball batters, and this latest dismissal is likely to reignite the debate.
In the initial stages of the series, Root began with a brief 29-run performance in the first innings in Hyderabad. However, he subsequently registered two consecutive single-digit scores before contributing 16 runs in England’s run-chase effort in Vishakapatnam.
The ex-captain faced difficulties during his previous tour of India, except for his notable double century in Chennai in 2021. However, there’s a significant contrast in the pitches compared to three years ago. Root’s struggle is accentuated by the fact that the other English top-order batsmen are in good form.
The early breakthrough on Day 3 not only marked Root’s dismissal but also led to Jonny Bairstow getting out. Bairstow was caught LBW by Kuldeep Yadav for a four-ball duck immediately after Root’s departure. At the time of writing, England is positioned at 225-4 after 41 overs, with Ben Duckett and Ben Stokes at the crease.
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