Is Joe Root's skill set unsuited to the demands of the game? A 'frustrating verdict' from England's legend

India defeated England by a massive 434 runs in Rajkot, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.

England's batting collapsed in the second innings of the test, as they were dismissed for just 122 while chasing a target of 557.

Despite the strong performance by the English batters, Joe Root, the stalwart of the England team, has faced significant criticism for his performance in the ongoing test series. Root has only scored 77 runs across six innings.

In addition to his poor form, Root has been severely criticised for his rash shot selection, which has led to his dismissals.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes that some people think Root does not fit with England's 'Bazball' cricket style. However, Root's average of 51 under skipper Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, which is higher than his average of 49 in test matches, proves them wrong.

Husain further stated that despite their initial doubts about Root's suitability for the Bazball style of play, the statistics prove otherwise.

Root's average of 51 under this style is even higher than his pre-existing average of 49. The manner of his dismissal reflects the unpredictable nature of Bazball, which can both thrill and frustrate in equal measure. When he plays those reverse-scoops to the first ball of the day in an Ashes Test, we all applaud. But when he tries it off Bumrah and gets out,  that's why he is being criticised.

On 23 February, Team India will take on England in Ranchi in the fourth Test of the series.