Talismanic England batter Joe Root anchored yet another record run chase as England defeated India in the first match of the five-match series at Headingley, Leeds, to take a 1–0 lead.
On the decisive fifth day of the series opener, openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley provided a solid foundation, putting on a 188-run partnership. After Crawley fell, Root joined Duckett at the crease in the 45th over with the score at 206/2, and India’s hopes were beginning to fade. Had India managed to pick up two quick wickets at that stage, the match might have opened up again. However, Root ensured that did not happen, forming a composed 47-run stand off 59 balls with Duckett to stabilise the innings.
Following Duckett’s and Harry Brook’s dismissals off consecutive deliveries bowled by Shardul Thakur, India sensed a way back into the game. But Root then forged a vital 49-run partnership with captain Ben Stokes to steer England closer to the target. After Stokes was dismissed, Jamie Smith joined Root, and the pair saw England over the line without any further loss. They added an unbeaten 71 runs from 88 deliveries as England secured a five-wicket victory.
Root was instrumental in that famous 2022 Birmingham win against India
Root played the anchor role to perfection, much like he did in Birmingham in 2022. He remained not out on 53 off 84 balls, including six boundaries.
In the rescheduled Birmingham Test in 2022, Root had produced a masterclass. Alongside fellow Yorkshireman Jonny Bairstow, he led England to a memorable win to level the series. Root was the star of that chase as well, finishing unbeaten on 142 off 173 deliveries, which included 19 fours and a six.
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