Joe Root Could Open Bowling for England, Says Skipper Ben Stokes Ahead of 1st Test against India
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], January 24: England skipper Ben Stokes has revealed that Joe Root, an experienced batter, could open the bowling for England in the first Test against India in Hyderabad. The move is aimed at exploiting Indian tracks that are known to favor spinners.
With four spinners named in the 16-player squad, England is prepared to challenge India’s batters with Root’s off-breaks. Stokes believes that Root would be particularly effective against left-handed batters, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, as he can turn the ball away from them.
In a pre-match press conference, Stokes stated, It would be a complete and utter ‘gut’ thing, as most of my decisions like that are. You might even see Rooty taking the new ball, depending on what I feel. If (left-hander) Yashasvi Jaiswal opens the batting, you might see Rooty opening the bowling because it’s spinning away from the bat.
Traditionally, pacers have opened the game in Test cricket, regardless of the conditions. If Root does indeed open the bowling, it will signify a change in the dynamics of the game.
Stokes emphasized that he is not going into the match with any preconceived ideas about the surface and is willing to adapt to the situation. He said, You have always got to think that the ball is going to turn in India, but you don’t want to go in with any preconceived ideas. We have to adapt to whatever we have presented in front of us, with bat and ball.
Root, known for his off-spin, has taken six Test wickets in 135 appearances. His list of dismissals includes notable names like Shikhar Dhawan, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, Usman Khawaja, Rassie van der Dussen, Quinton de Kock, and Faf du Plessis.
As England prepares for their first Test against India, Stokes and Head Coach Brendon McCullum are focused on making decisions that will give their team the best chance to succeed. Stokes concluded, It’s just being true to yourself, making selections and decisions. It comes easier as I’ve done more of this… If I think the decision is best for the team, then it’s probably the right one.
The first Test between England and India will commence on Thursday in Hyderabad, offering an exciting start to the series. Both teams will be eager to showcase their skills and adapt to the conditions as they battle for victory.
