On Day 2 of the fourth Ashes Test, England showcased a dominant performance, with Zak Crawley and Joe Root leading the charge. Both batsmen played brilliantly, propelling the hosts to a first-innings lead of 34 before departing the crease.
Crawley’s aggressive style was evident in his remarkable knock of 189, while Root, the former England skipper, displayed an inspired mood when he stepped onto the crease at 130/2. He exhibited an unusual aplomb, scoring a quickfire 84 off just 95 deliveries, treating the spectators to a delightful array of shots.
Unfortunately, the Old Trafford pitch had some tricks up its sleeve, leading to Root’s dismissal when he was facing Hazlewood in the 62nd over. Hazlewood’s delivery was pitched straight and just short of a length, and Root initially seemed well-prepared for a textbook defense.
However, the ball behaved unexpectedly as it refused to rise after hitting the pitch, sneaking past Root’s defenses and rattling into the middle stump, sending the bails flying. The batter couldn’t believe his misfortune, as he was tantalizingly close to achieving his 31st Test century.
The only way to get him out 😉
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 20, 2023
Nothing you can do about those, Joe… #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/2RYAhrfHcM
Despite the untimely wicket, Twitter was full of praise for Root’s masterful knock, which included eight boundaries and an audacious reverse ramp for a six. Fans also expressed sympathy for his unfortunate dismissal.
