'No one knows my game as well as I do' - Joe Root hits back at critics, stands by his polarising reverse scoop

Joe Root, the charismatic batter for the England cricket team, has defended his controversial reverse-scoop shot, which has drawn criticism during the ongoing Test series against India. Despite the backlash, Root remains committed to the positive and aggressive approach by captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.

The incident in question occurred during the third Test in Rajkot, Root's dismissal to a reverse scoop triggered a batting collapse for England. The shot was widely criticised, with former cricketers and experts questioning the timing and necessity of such an audacious stroke.

However, his subsequent innings of 122 runs in Ranchi showcased a revival in form. Root's defence against criticism is evident in his recent statements. He acknowledges the opinions surrounding his shot selection but stands firm in his belief in his playing style. Despite averaging just 12.83 leading up to the fourth Test, Root's determination to contribute to the team's success remains firm.

Also read: Joe Root backs England wicketkeeper-batter ahead of his 100th Test

'I have high expectations of myself' - Joe Root

In an interview with Sky Sports, Root addressed the criticism head-on, stating, "People will have their own opinions on how I've got out through this series. I will continue playing the way I think is best for any given situation."

He firmly believes that his evolution as a batter and constant adaptation have been key to his success, and he has no intention of standing still.

"I have high expectations of myself and until that last Test match I was way below where I want to be, I will continue playing the way I think is best for any given situation. No one knows my game as well as I do," he added.

Root's rationale for the controversial shot was rooted in the team's aggressive mindset. "I tried to just play the game in front of me. I looked at that situation and those conditions there [in Ranchi], and it didn't need anything flamboyant. It needed someone to be a constant throughout and try to keep a calm feel to things," the cricketer said.

With India down a bowler due to Ravichandran Ashwin's withdrawal, Root saw an opportunity to seize the initiative and put pressure on the opposition.

"It could have completely changed the complexion of that morning, with India a bowler down, There has been a lot of talk about Ashwin not being there and seeing off Bumrah. But if Bumrah goes for four an over in that spell, they've got one less bowler to turn to and we could get ahead of the game even quicker on a potentially deteriorating wicket and put more pressure on India," he explained.

Also read: Hawk-Eye founder Paul Hawkins defends DRS decision for Joe Root's dismissal in Ranchi Test

England are 3-1 down in the five-match Test series against India, and the last and final Test is set to begin on 7th March at Dharamsala. The visitors will look to end the series on a high and will look to secure a win in the upcoming Test.