Former England cricket star Alastair Cook has heaped praise on Joe Root for his remarkable century in the fourth Test against India, drawing parallels with Indian captain Rohit Sharma and applauding Root’s resilience.
Root, 33, showcased his class with an unbeaten 122-run innings, steering England to a respectable total of 353 in their first innings after a shaky start at 112 for 5 on the opening day of the ongoing fourth Test in Ranchi.
Reflecting on Root’s innings, Alastair Cook spoke to TNT Sport, expressing admiration for Root’s ability to overcome challenges. “When you see someone go through a little trouble, it’s always great to see them out the other end. When great players don’t score runs it’s only a matter of time until they do,” Cook remarked.
Describing Root’s innings, Cook noted, “What Joe Root did today (Friday) was go back to basics. This is a clip of someone with the shots you’d expect Joe Root to play. All the talk about the reverse scoop being unusual, this is a very typical Joe innings.”
Cook further likened Root’s batting style to that of Rohit Sharma, emphasizing his smooth rhythm and class. “Slightly slower than normal but the tempo and his rhythm of batting is what makes him stand out. When he’s in fine flow he’s got such a nice easy way about him, Rohit (Sharma)-like. Pure and utter class, great player of spin and he has all the options covered.”
Root had faced criticism following his unconventional shot selection in previous matches, particularly his reverse lap against Jasprit Bumrah in the third Test. However, his century in the fourth Test showcased a different side of Root’s game.
“Root has played beautifully today. It has been a very different Root to what we have seen in the series, one who has been playing with control…It has been very un-Bazball, for those who like the entertainment, but very effective,” Cook commented, acknowledging Root’s composed approach.
He concluded by highlighting Root’s composed demeanor during the innings, noting, “It was a very emotionless Root. It will be interesting to see what he says about this hundred. Given all of the stuff that has gone on before, the talk about his shot selection and the way he has played. Great players respond and he has responded with runs.”
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