London: Joe Root had faced only four deliveries from Kuldeep Yadav being dismissed twice in earlier games and his primary aim during the second ODI against India was to “pick as many cues as possible” while facing the left-arm wrist-spinner, who has created quite an impression in the English ranks.
The best part about Root’s hundred was his assured batting against the chinaman, which is a big positive for England going into the five-match Test series.
“For me, having not faced a lot of Kuldeep for example, it was about picking as many cues up as possible throughout and makes sure I don’t get caught in the cold in Leeds, if I start against spin,” Root said at the post-match press conference.
“I have only faced four balls against him in the last couple of games. But ultimately you have got to trust your game and your technique. I felt that the four balls I did face, I thought I was picking him okay.
“So it was more about spending some time out there and trusting the way I play spin. I haven’t faced much of his type of bowling but having a few overs under my belt gave me quite a lot of confidence,” Root said after his 12th ODI hundred ensured a comfirtable 86-run win for England.
For Root, playing Kuldeep is a learning process rather looking forward to the Test series.
“You are always tying to learn as a player and always trying to pick things up when you next play someone, whether individuals or a team. I don’t think it is about looking too far forward in terms of Test cricket just yet with the game on Tuesday,” he said.
“Again on the turning surface, you make sure you are playing in the right manner and working things out. It might work out if he (Kuldeep) is in Test squad and it could hold me in good stead. Ultimately it is about making sure when we come to the Headingley game, we are ready and prepared for that,” he said. (PTI)
