For a while, the visitors allowed their second innings to meander. England slowed down after tea, eventually getting bowled out for 178. Despite setting an unlikely target of 420 for India, it appeared as if England could have hastened proceedings in the afternoon session on Day 4 and insert the visitors early.
Nevertheless, the visitors managed to secure a whopping 227-run win well before Tea on Day 5. Speaking to the media in the post-match press conference, Joe Root revealed why England opted against a declaration in their second innings.
Going into Day 5, the possibility of an Indian win was a remote possibility considering the hosts’ recent heroics in Brisbane. However, that wasn’t to be the case, as England took wickets at regular intervals to bowl out Team India.
Joe Root also mentioned that by batting longer, England wanted to rule out any chance of an Indian win, saying in this regard:
Joe Root happy to see his decision not to declare pay off
The England captain was widely criticised at the end of Day 4. Many thought the visitors would lose out on crucial overs with the ball by batting for a long time.
Shane Warne and Michael Vaughan were some of the former players perplexed by England’s slow batting, slamming Joe Root for being too cautious.
However, after winning the game comfortably, Joe Root observed how the late closure of the England second innings allowed the visitors to concentrate on their own game without worrying about other variables.
Joe Root in awe of James Anderson
Veteran bowler James Anderson played a huge role in England’s win. The fast bowler bowled a mesmerising opening spell on Day 5.
In his first over of the day, a double-wicket maiden, Anderson dismissed the well-set Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane. The fast bowler also got the wicket of the dangerous Rishabh Pant as well.
Joe Root paid rich tribute to the 38-year-old, who ended up with match figures of 63/5, saying:
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