IND vs ENG: Joe Root silences critics with century in Ranchi Test

IND vs ENG: Prior to his hundred, Root was going through a leaning pach. He managed to score only 77 runs in his first six innings of the series in India. This sparked concerns about his form and suitability for the aggressive approach by England's new captain, Ben Stokes. A few shot selections of Root also drew criticism as some questioned his ability to thrive under the new philosophy.

Author
Satyam Singh
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Courtesy: X/@englandcricket

 IND vs ENG: After a string of low scores and mounting criticism, Joe Root silenced his critics with a composed century on Day 1 of the fourth Test against India in Ranchi. The brilliant comeback of Root has sparked renewed debate around his role in England's 'Bazball' era and his ability to adapt to the aggressive style of play.

Prior to his hundred, Root was going through a leaning pach. He managed to score only 77 runs in his first six innings of the series in India. This sparked concerns about his form and suitability for the aggressive approach by England's new captain, Ben Stokes. A few shot selections of Root also drew criticism as some questioned his ability to thrive under the new philosophy.

However, in Ranchi, the veteran batter has silenced the critics with a patient and well-constructed knock of 106 runs. Playing against a bowling attack without Jasprit Bumrah, Root played to his more natural style, showing grit and resilience. The century anchored England's first innings as they ended up posting 302/7 at the end of the day. 

This knock has reignited the conversation surrounding Root's role in the 'Bazball' era. While some laud his adaptability and see his century as a positive sign for his future, others believe he may be better suited to playing a more measured role within the aggressive framework.

Former cricketers like AB de Villiers and Michael Vaughan have praised Root's innings. De Villiers called it a "masterclass in composure," while Vaughan hailed it as a "timely reminder of his class."

Earlier in the day, Ben Stokes won the toss and opted to bat first in the fourth test in Ranchi. Opner Zak Crawley gave a solid start to visitors by scoring runs at a brisk rate. Debutant Akash Deep was impressive with the red cherry, claiming the top three wickets of England before lunch. Jonny Bairstow got a good start after 6 innings. However, he failed to convert the start into a big total. He was dismissed by R Ashwin. 

After the departure of Baristow, Joe Root and Ben Fokaes added 113 runs for the sixth wickets. Mohammed Siraj provided the breakthrough for India by dismissing Fokaes at 47. At the time of stumps, England have posted 320/7 on the boards, with Joe Root (106*) and Ollie Robinson (31*) on strike. 

Brief Scoreboard

England: 302/7 in 90 Overs (Joe Root 106, Ben Foakes 47; Akash Deep 3/70) vs India
Toss: England won the toss and opted to bat first