As the Ranchi Test unfolded on its first day, England’s batting sensation Joe Root emerged as the hero, leading an extraordinary fightback against India with an unbeaten 106*. The Day 1 narrative of the fourth Test match was largely written by Root’s masterful 31st Test century, which propelled England to a respectable total of 302/7 by stumps.
Tensions were high as England resumed play, trailing the series 1-2 and desperate for a turnaround to level the scoreboard. From the start, India’s bowling brigade seemed indomitable, with England’s top order crumbling under pressure and surrendering five wickets before the lunch interval. The atmosphere appeared grim for the visiting side, with spirits dampened and hopes for a sizable first-innings score fast diminishing.
However, the post-lunch session witnessed a striking reversal of fortunes for England, thanks largely to Root’s relentless pursuit of redemption. Having faced a torrent of criticism for his lackluster performances earlier in the series, including a particularly controversial dismissal for attempting a reverse scoop shot in the previous match, the seasoned batsman was under immense scrutiny. Root’s response was emphatic – an innings constructed with elegance, patience, and a determination to guide his team out of the doldrums.
Relishing a return to form, Root meticulously accumulated runs, bringing up a century with a mix of deft touches and crisp drives. His composed presence at the crease was a beacon for England, and together with the solid support of Ben Foakes, who contributed a competent half-century, he conjured a vital partnership. The 113-run stand for the sixth wicket between the two was a testament to their shared resilience and changed the momentum of the match.
Root’s century was not just a personal triumph, but held greater significance as a collective boost for the England team. Zak Crawley, who had earlier contributed a swift 42 off 42 balls at the top of the order, was lavish in his praise for Root’s timely knock. “We never doubted Joe,” indicated Crawley, underscoring the team’s unwavering faith in Root’s abilities despite recent struggles. “We just think if he gets a couple of low scores, he’s even more due than before, so we fully expected him to go out and get runs in this game.”
Commending his former captain’s work ethic and his pivotal role in the day’s play, Crawley further added, “He deserves everything he gets, he works so hard at his game and he always comes good.” The admiration within the squad for Root was palpable, as Crawley hailed him as likely the only player capable of delivering such a performance under the circumstances. “He’s our best player and he’s stepped up when we needed him to. We needed him to get a score, and he got a score like he’s done for so many years now. He’s just a phenomenal player, one of the best – if not the best – player we’ve ever had for England.”
The gravity of the situation was not lost on the cricketing world, with Root registering an impressive accolade by becoming the first player to notch up 10 Test centuries against India. His exploits have not only written a new chapter in England’s cricketing history but have also injected fresh vigour into a series that appeared to be slipping away from England’s grasp.
As the Ranchi Test progresses and the narratives continue to unfold, Root’s century will undoubtedly be remembered as a masterclass in batting under pressure. Whether it will be the catalyst to turn the tide of the series remains to be seen, but for now, the England camp can bask in the joy of witnessing one of their finest defy odds and deliver when it mattered most.
