Chappell urges Root to drop 'Bazball' approach after horror dismissal in Rajkot

Former Australian Test skipper Ian Chappell has urged England’s Joe Root to play his natural game and drop the “Bazball approach” after his dismissal on the reverse ramp shot led to the visitors’ batting collapse in the third Test against India. Root’s struggles were highlighted by England’s 434-run defeat, their heaviest in terms of runs since 1934.

England were 224-2 on day three of the third test, with Ben Duckett batting at 141. However, Root’s dismissal triggered a collapse for England, who went from 207-2 to 319 all out, conceding a 126-run lead to India.

Chappell emphasized Root’s prowess when playing his natural game, suggesting that the attempt to adopt a radical shift in approach was unnecessary. He said, “Root had a bloody fine record playing normally, and he was a quick scorer playing normally. I don’t see why he’s trying to change things drastically, and I’ve never believed you should play premeditated shots.”

Root’s recent numbers didn’t paint a flattering picture, especially compared to his stellar form before Brendon McCullum’s tenure. Root’s average since Brendon McCullum took over is 50.12 – a touch higher than his career average of 49.32.

Chappell underscored the importance of playing according to the conditions and the bowlers, acknowledging that aggression should be tempered by situational awareness. He said, “You can’t always do it – it’s got to be according to the conditions and also who’s bowling. Some bowlers you can score off a lot quicker than others, but when a really good bowler is bowling a good spell, you’ve got to be prepared to try and battle it out and think to yourself ‘Well, when he goes off, it’ll get a bit easier’.”

Root had previously been dismissed playing a switch hit, having attempted a similar shot against the Netherlands at last year’s ODI World Cup. However, England coach Brendon McCullum has backed Root to continue trying to take the game on.

In conclusion, Chappell’s comments shed light on the need for Root to revert to his natural game and adapt his playing style according to the conditions and the bowlers. Root’s attempt to adopt a radical shift in approach has come under scrutiny after his dismissal on the reverse ramp shot in the third Test. The pressure is now on Root to rethink his approach as England looks to bounce back in the series.

(Image source: IANS)