Despite polarizing opinions regarding the reverse scoop shot, England’s star hitter Joe Root has stated that he will continue to use it.
During the 2022 and 2023 home summer, the Yorkshire batter made extensive use of the reverse ramp. However, it backfired on Jasprit Bumrah in the third Test against India in Rajkot, leading to his dismissal at a critical stage. Joe Root faced criticism after England squandered a 126-run advantage.
The 33-year-old told Sky Sports that he understands his game best and that there would be occasions when he uses the reverse ramp incorrectly:
“People will have their own opinions on how I’ve got out through this series and what is best for me. I will continue playing the way I think is best for any given situation. No one knows my game as well as I do. The reason I’ve got to where I’ve got to is because I’ve always looked to keep trying to get better, improve and evolve.
“That’s got to keep happening. If you stand still in this game, with the amount of information and analysis out there, you’ll get found out. I’m not always going to get it right. I’m going to make the odd mistake.”
Joe Root
Until the fourth Test in Ranchi, the 33-year-old had a disappointing India trip. On Day 1, the right-hander blasted an undefeated 122 while curbing his aggressive style, saving the visitors from a dangerous scenario.
“I tried to just play the game in front of me” – Joe Root
Joe Root expressed his letdown for not performing as expected in the initial three Tests. Regarding his hundred runs in Ranchi, the former captain felt the game required someone to firmly set in.
“I have high expectations of myself, and until that last Test match, I was way below where I want to be. I felt short of runs, I felt like I’d not contributed how I’d expect myself to and how I wanted to coming into the tour.
“It’s a part of the world I love batting in, and I’ve had previous success here. I tried to just play the game in front of me. I looked at that situation and those conditions there (in Ranchi), and it didn’t need anything flamboyant. It needed someone to be a constant throughout and try to keep a calm feel to things.”
Joe Root
India currently leads the five-match series 3-1 against England. The final match will commence in Dharamsala on the 7th of March.