Atherton dismisses misconception, credits Joe Root's self-driven adaptation

In a masterful display of skill and temperament, England's talismanic batsman, Joe Root, orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in the 4th Test against India in Ranchi, not only signaling a triumphant return to form but also salvaging England from the depths of trouble.

Root's resurgence on the field not only silenced critics but also dispelled a prevailing misconception surrounding his playing style. Former England captain, Michael Atherton, debunked the notion that Root's attacking cricket was a result of instructions from skipper Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum. Atherton emphasized that Root's embrace of a more aggressive approach, akin to Bazball, stemmed from his personal choice rather than external pressure.

Root weathered severe criticism for his subdued performances in the initial three Tests of the series, failing to notch a half-century and succumbing to uncharacteristic shots. Particularly, his dismissal via a reverse sweep to Jasprit Bumrah in the third Test became a focal point of discussion among cricket pundits.

However, Root's demeanor underwent a drastic transformation in Ranchi, where he exhibited patience, composure, and an astute reading of the game. Eschewing extravagant strokes, Root adopted a methodical approach, playing each ball on its merit and displaying impeccable judgment of length against spinners on a pitch with variable bounce.

Notably, Root's innings saw a notable absence of flamboyant shots like sweeps, reverse-sweeps, or scoops, underlining his adaptability and tactical acumen. Atherton lauded Root's discernment in responding to the demands of the situation without resorting to forceful strokes.

Root's stellar performance culminated in his 10th century against India, the most by any player, and his 31st overall in Test cricket. Beyond individual accolades, his innings served as a beacon of hope for England, rescuing them from precarious situations and reaffirming his status as one of the game's premier batsmen.