Ben Duckett defends ‘freak’ Root’s shot selection in Rajkot

In a surprising turn of events during the ongoing Test in Rajkot, Joe Root’s dismissal for 18, reverse-scooping Jasprit Bumrah straight to second slip, has ignited a heated debate among cricket enthusiasts. Root’s unorthodox shot selection, criticised as “the worst, most stupid shot in the history of England’s Test cricket,” prompted his teammate Ben Duckett to come to his defence.

The criticism didn’t spare Root, with veteran journalist Scyld Berry labelling it as a shot that “wrecked England’s chances of winning this Test and this series.” Former England captain Michael Vaughan also weighed in, questioning the timing of the shot, and emphasising the importance of adapting playing styles in various situations.

Despite facing criticism, Duckett remained resolute, expressing disappointment that Root’s shot didn’t result in more runs. Duckett defended Root, asserting that Root has earned the right to take such risks. He drew a parallel between Root’s shot and his unconventional reverse sweep, underscoring the inherent risk in both approaches.

“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 told TNT Sports.

“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.

Also Read: ‘He doesn’t need to be Bazballer’ – Michael Vaughan criticizes Joe Root for playing unconventional Bazball cricket

India are slightly wary of us: Duckett

As the match hangs in the balance, Duckett found solace in India’s cautious approach, sending in Kuldeep Yadav as a nightwatchman despite a substantial lead. Duckett believed this move reflects India’s wariness of England’s potential to turn the tide. He expressed optimism about England’s chances and said that they’re going to continue the way that they play.

“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,” Duckett added.

Also Read: IND vs ENG 2024: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stunning reflex catch sends back Joe Root