Joe Root once again proved to be a thorn in India’s side, guiding England to 251-4 at stumps on the first day of the third Test at Lord’s with a patient, unbeaten 99.
Having had a relatively quiet series so far, Root spent over five hours under the blazing sun, anchoring England’s innings after captain Ben Stokes chose to bat first. Stokes, who ended the day on 39 not out, appeared to be nursing a groin or adductor injury that may limit his bowling role. Notably, he turned down a second run in the final over that could have taken Root to his century.
Root’s determined knock marked a shift from England’s typically aggressive “Bazball” approach under coach Brendon McCullum and captain Stokes. Instead, the team opted for a more measured strategy on a challenging pitch.
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“It was slightly different to the way we usually put together an innings, but we’ll take it,” batter Ollie Pope told the BBC. “We want to be a team that’s positive and entertaining, but we also want to play to the situation. Our lineup can score hundreds off 120 balls, but sometimes you have to dig in.”
With the series level, Root’s resolute performance has handed England the early advantage in the crucial Test.
Source: Agency