Test cricket is alive and kicking, says Joe Root says after thrilling Edgbaston win

England Test captain Joe Root couldn’t hold back his pleasure after his team defeated India by 31 runs in the first Test at Edgbaston to go 1-0 up in a five-match series. He not only praised his players for producing a match-winning performance in Birmingham but also said some kind words about Test cricket – the future of which has come under increasing doubt.

The post by Root, who top scored with 80 for England in the game and found himself in the middle of the talks for the mic drop episode he had initiated at the end of the third ODI last month, also came after England won their 1,000th Test match played since 1877 which in itself is also a historic feat. England have won 358 of these 1,000 Tests; lost 297 while 345 were drawn.

Joe Root took to his official Instagram handle and posted a photo of English players celebrating the fall of an Indian wicket against the backdrop of the stadium at Edgbaston and lush green ground, with the caption which read, “Safe to say test cricket is alive and kicking! Brilliant test match, very proud of the boys! Fantastic atmosphere throughout!”

The image of the players in white engaging in the game with excitement and exaltation put forth a perfect image of Test cricket – the traditional variety which has often found itself eclipsed by the more glamorous breed these days. The post received applause from many people, including Indian fans.

Superb comeback victory

However, England’s victory was not foreseen till the third day’s afternoon when they fought back into the game after getting reduced to 87 for 7 by India’s bowlers.

The hosts’ tail wagged to take them to a more respectable 180, giving them a lead of 193. India then faced their second batting debacle in as many innings to eventually get bowled out for 162, losing the game by 31 runs. England’s 20-year-old fast bowler Sam Curran was adjudged the Man of the Match for his all-round show.

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