Former Indian captain Anil Kumble made an astonishing comparison between England batsman Joe Root and the two biggest names in India, suggesting that Root is comparable to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the 50-over game. The famous spinner highlighted how Root’s technical approach and game awareness set him apart in their usually aggressive batting setup during England’s current ODI series against India.
Kumble was particularly pleased by Root’s ability to rotate the strike and identify holes, describing him as incredibly dependable and aware of when to play aggressive shots and when to patiently build momentum. Notably, while stranded on an undefeated 99 off 133 balls, Root guided England to a 1-1 draw with the Indian team in the ODI series.
“Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are to India what Joe Root is to England. The only hitter on that England team who still plays with an antiquated ODI mentality is Root. Root took his time, controlled the innings, and provided composure to the chase as the other hitters attacked right away. “His ability to rotate the strike and find gaps makes him incredibly reliable.” You can be sure he won’t make a dangerous shot at the wrong moment.
Anil Kumble stated on JioHotstar, “That kind of game awareness is invaluable.”
The veteran spinner then compared Root to England’s skipper, Harry Brook. “The difference between Harry Brook and Joe Root was evident. Brook’s aggressive strategy backfired against the available delivery types, while Root’s traditional technique worked much better on a pitch that offered bounce and movement.” He said, “Root produced a masterclass in ODI batting, while Brook attempted to play T20 shots in conditions that didn’t allow it.”
Anil Kumble continued by outlining the characteristics that set batsmen like Root, Kohli, and Sharma apart.
“The ease with which Root, Kohli, and Rohit score runs is what makes them so successful. They don’t plan ahead. They respond to the ball. Instead of playing high-risk, high-reward cricket, they play low-risk, high-reward cricket. Anil Kumble remarked, “When you have that kind of class, grace, and mindset, it makes life easier for the entire team.”
India and England will play their third and last One-Day International at Lord’s in London on Sunday, July 19.
