Joe Root Lauds Harry Brook's Stellar Performance in Test Match

Root's Admiration for Brook's Performance

England's Joe Root expressed high praise for his Yorkshire teammate Harry Brook after their impressive 195-run partnership. Brook's explosive century of 111 runs off 98 balls, combined with Root's own century, thwarted India's chances of an easy victory while defending a daunting target of 374 runs. As the match heads into its final day, England requires just 35 runs with three or four wickets remaining, depending on Chris Woakes' batting status.

Root's Thoughts on Batting with Brook

Reflecting on his experience batting alongside Brook, Root remarked that it is always enjoyable. He noted their contrasting styles, stating, "He plays more expansively than I do and possesses a fantastic range of shots. What I admire most is how he applies pressure on the opposition, taking calculated risks at crucial moments, which can completely change the game, as he did today."

Root added that watching Brook's exceptional shot-making from the 'best seat in the house' is a remarkable experience.

Brook's Consistency Highlighted

Root emphasized that Brook is not just a one-time performer, having scored ten centuries in a similar fashion. He praised Brook's consistency and the methodical approach behind his game, attributing their current position in the match to Brook's outstanding innings.

Root's Frustration with Prasidh Krishna

Discussing his dismissal by Prasidh Krishna, Root expressed frustration not due to their earlier exchange but rather for not finishing the game. He acknowledged Krishna's talent, stating, "Prasidh is a proven performer and a brilliant player. You don't play for India as a seamer without significant skill."

Root clarified that his frustration stemmed from not being able to lead the team to victory, emphasizing the importance of absorbing pressure and seizing opportunities.

Praise for Mohammed Siraj

Root also commended Mohammed Siraj for his relentless bowling, describing him as a 'warrior.' He noted Siraj's commitment to the game and his impressive skill set, stating, "He gives everything for India, and his work ethic is commendable."

Siraj is currently the leading wicket-taker in the series, with 20 wickets at an average exceeding 36.

Day 4 Summary of the Test Match

As the fourth day of the Test match concluded, England finished the first session at 164/3, needing 210 runs for victory, with Brook and Root at the crease. After opting to bat first, England restricted India to 224 runs, with notable performances from Karun Nair and Washington Sundar.

In the second innings, Siraj and Krishna's four-wicket hauls limited England to 247 runs. India's second innings saw significant contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Deep, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, leading to a total of 396 runs and setting a challenging target of 374 for England.

At the end of day four, England was at 339/6, needing 35 runs to win, with uncertainty surrounding Woakes' ability to bat due to a shoulder injury.