Published By: Sayan Guha

IND vs. ENG T20I: THIS Legend Could Solve England's Spin Woes- 3 Reasons Why a Recall is the Answer!

A familiar face could be the missing piece in England's battle against India’s spinners

England’s recent T20I series against India has underscored their uphill struggle against spin. With crucial players falling to the might of Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi, England’s batting lineup has been in disarray, and India’s spinners have held a firm grip on the series.

In the first T20I, England were dismissed for 132. Things did not improve much in the subsequent matches, as they continued to struggle. Chakravarthy, in particular, has been a thorn in England’s side, taking 10 wickets in the first three games, including a magnificent five-wicket haul. Jos Buttler has been England’s top player, scoring 137 runs at a 142.70 strike rate. However, Ben Duckett is the next highest scorer, with 58.

The problem with England’s approach to spin

England’s fight with spin bowling is not a new issue. Their limitations against slower bowlers have been revealed often, particularly in subcontinental conditions. Players such as Jos Buttler have shown signs of form, but the team as a whole continues to struggle. Compared to the quality of India’s spinners, this strategy is just insufficient.

One name that has emerged as a potential solution to England's persistent spin conundrum is Joe Root. Despite the challenges faced by England’s current lineup, Root’s reputation as a spinner remains strong and promising.

Reason 1: Root’s spin-play mastery

Root has always been known for his exceptional ability to play spin compared to his peers. His technique against slow bowlers, especially his ability to get on the back foot and play the ball off the pitch, has been vital to his success. In contrast to England’s current strategy of charging down the wicket, Root’s strength is his ability to read the ball early and play it late.

Root has an incredible T20I average of 53.57 in ten appearances in India. In comparison, England’s current batters, like Buttler, have struggled to score regularly against Indian spinners, averaging far lower. Root’s strike rate of 120 in T20I cricket demonstrates his ability to both anchor an innings and accelerate, when necessary, which has been lacking in England’s lineup.

Reason 2: His recent form and mental strength

Root continued his impressive form in the SA20, scoring 92* and 78*. While England’s top order has faltered, Root’s previous performances have proven his willingness repeatedly. His mental strength and calm demeanour under duress distinguish him from the rest of England’s players in the current series, many of whom have collapsed in front of India’s spinners.

When confronted with adversity, Root has frequently served as England’s rock. His ability to adjust, alter gears, and develop an innings under pressure might be the solution England is urgently seeking.

Reason 3: Root’s T20I experience in India

Root has already shown his significance in India. He was a member of England’s side, which reached the T20 World Cup final in 2016, when he made a major contribution. His familiarity with Indian conditions and his experience playing against elite spinners such as Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal offer him an advantage. Not to add, his adaptation to Indian conditions has played a significant role in his achievement.

Root’s average in India is 53.57 from ten T20I matches. Compare that to the current crop of England players, none of whom have broken the 40-run mark in India. Root’s constant ability to score runs in such circumstances gives him an important weapon in England’s spin-heavy problems.

As England continues to suffer constant pressure from India’s spinners, bringing back Joe Root might be the key to unlocking their potential. If he returns, England’s effectiveness against spin may improve, but it may also change their entire strategy for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.