Pure, unadulterated class, a la Rohit: Cook praises Strive for a non-Bazball hit

Joe Root’s century in the fourth Test, which defied the Bazball, was praised by England great Alastair Cook, who also made the inevitable comparison with India skipper Rohit Sharma.

Day 1 of the current fourth Test in Ranchi saw the 33-year-old Root come back to form with an undefeated 122, lifting England to 353 in their first innings after they had been reduced to 112 for 5 in the morning session.

It’s always wonderful to watch someone come out on the other side of a minor difficulty that they had. It’s just a matter of time before outstanding players score runs, Cook said to TNT Sport on Friday after the first day of play.

Joe Root simplified his actions today (Friday). This video has a person who looks like Joe Root—Cook was talking while a tape of Root’s innings was playing. Despite the discussion around the odd nature of the reverse scoop, this is a very Joe innings.

“He bats a little slower than usual, but what really sets him apart is the cadence and rhythm. He has such a pleasant, carefree demeanor when he’s in the zone, almost like Rohit Sharma. Excellent spin player who has complete class and covers all the bases.

One of the finest batsmen in the world of cricket, Root, came under fire after England lost the third Test when they were bowled out for 319 following a reverse lap against Jasprit Bumrah.

It was his first century in the five-match series after he finished his previous six Test innings with scores of 29, 2, 5, 16, 18, and 7.

“Root performed flawlessly today. Compared to the Root we have seen throughout the series, this one has been manipulating authority.Cook, a former England captain, observed, “It has been very un-Bazball, for those who like the entertainment, but very effective.”

“Root was really emotionless. Given all that has happened before, including the criticism of his shot choice and style of play, it will be fascinating to hear what he has to say about this hundred. He has answered with runs, like great players do.