3 reasons why Joe Root can be the X Factor player for England against India

Former England skipper Joe Root has become one of the top batters in the Test format after going past the 13,000 runs in the Test format. Root is now just under 3000 runs to go past Sachin Tendulkar and become the leading run-getter in the longest format of the game. Root will be keen to do well against India, having done well so far since his debut against the same side in 2012. 

The coming five-test series at home will give Root yet another chance to show why he is the best batter in the world. Root has been in blazing form with the bat, outshining the likes of Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson. The only batter who has come close to Root is none other than Australian batter Steve Smith. 

Here are the three reasons why Joe Root can be the X Factor in the ENG vs IND series

3. Overall record against India

Joe Root has scored close to 3000 runs against India from 30 games with 10 centuries and 11 fifties. Root has been a constant thorn in the flesh of Indian bowlers, and his double century in the 2021 century in Chennai is a very good example. Root also scored a century in the second innings of the Edgbaston in 2022 to help the home team chase down the massive 378 score. 

2. Good form at home 

It is to be noted that Joe Root has played 79 tests at home, scoring 6792 runs with an average of 54, with 21 centuries and 32 fifties. Root has been at his best when playing in front of his home fans. The wickets in England have started to suit him in the last few years, as seen with the insane amount of run-scoring he has shown the world. His form will be key for England if they have to make a great start to the fourth WTC cycle. 

1. 2024 form with the bat 

Last year, Joe Root scored 1556 runs from 17 Test matches with a best of 262 that came during the Multan Test against Pakistan. Root also hit six centuries and five fifties and averaged 55 with the bat. This was Root’s second-highest runs in a calendar year after the 1708 runs he scored in 2021 in the red-ball format. The former English captain has been in good form lately, scoring centuries in the white-ball format and also becoming the leading run-getter for his side in the ODI format.  

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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