Chennai – It’s yet another double-century for Joe Root. Joe took his innings from 128 to 218 against India. This is already his second double hundred of 2021.
During this batting masterclass, Joe has kept the statisticians busy. Aside from the statistics, it is clear Joe’s technique is in perfect tune with the conditions presented in the Asian subcontinent.
After scoring 228 and 186 in consecutive Tests in Sri Lanka, he has followed up with this compelling exhibition of batting against India. It is no surprise that Joe averages over 50 in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India.
England began the day on 263-3, Joe playing the supporting role to the aggressive batting of Ben Stokes (82). The pair added 124 runs for the fourth wicket before Ben holed out slog-sweeping. Nevertheless, England were still looking at the prospect of a big first innings total.
Joe reached his fifth double century in Tests with style, his lofted drive off Ravichandran Ashwin clearing the boundary for a satisfying six.
He was the sixth batter out with England on 477. Joe’s innings was one that the media pundits and analysts will purr over with positive contentment.
England ended the day on 555-8 with Jos Buttler contributing 30 runs in his fiftieth Test.
On a pitch now showing wear, Joe will be expecting Dom Bess and Jack Leach to eke out a few more runs when play resumes.
(PhoenixMedia Image Created from a Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)