Joe Root’s sequence of scores in this series read: 124, 4, 53, 25, 15, 78, 21, 77 and now 88. By all accounts, it is a good set of scores, a half-century in each innings. But there is something missing: that big double ton or a big knock. Root scored 124 in Rajkot and has looked good in each innings so far. But he has made a habit of getting out just when he can move into cruise control.
The same script continued in Chennai. From a precarious 21/2, Joe Root combined with Moeen Ali to turn England’s innings around. If the scoring rate was low before lunch, Root and Ali upped the ante and started taking the attack to the opposition. In the process, Root went past 50 and into the 80s. A hundred seemed there for the taking.
And against the run of play, he found a way to get out. The partnership was a cool 146, Root looked in control. But Ravindra Jadeja tossed one way outside off stump and Root took a swipe at it. Parthiv Patel behind him, did not look interested but Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja were very enthusiastic. Kohli was so convinced that he went up. And for good reason. The Ultra-Edge detected a thin snick and Root was given out. He walked off again, furious with the decision and kicking the ground. But, if he is serious about himself, Root should really wonder why he has developed this habit of throwing it away when he has it all.
Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow took England through to tea at 182/3.
Brief scores:
England 182/3 (Joe Root 88, Moeen Ali 63 not out; Ravindra Jadeja 2/54, Ishant Sharma 1/9)
Buy an annual Scroll Membership to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!