Exposing weaknesses of 10 top cricketers

8. Joe Root—susceptible to off-spin and incoming deliveries

Joe Root is the world's leading Test run-getter among active players and England's most consistent batter in red-ball cricket, yet strong off-spin and in-swinging deliveries continue to pose concerns. His instinct to play around his front pad leaves him vulnerable to being trapped in front of the pads against good bowlers, which has been exploited countless times.

When facing quality off-spinners, Root's defensive style might become predictable. He struggles to rotate strike, particularly in Asian settings. Bowlers target Root's stumps with spin or reverse swing, knowing that his technical prowess may work against him, getting crucial breakthroughs for their team.