Top 4 non-Asian batsmen in Asian conditions in Test Cricket
The performance of Asian teams in SENA countries is often analysed and criticised. However, the performance of non-Asian teams in Asia is not talked about much.
2. Joe Root
During England’s tour to India in 2012, the visitors had a lead of 2-1 in the first three matches. The Sir Alastair Cook-led England needed to avoid a defeat in the last match at Nagpur to clinch the series. England decided to hand a Test cap to the youngster Joseph Edward Root who was performing well in the domestic circuit. The debutante did not disappoint either as he played patient knocks of 73 (229) and 20 (56) in his maiden game to impress one and all.
The fact that Root played his first Test match away from home in Asia gave enough proof that England trusted his ability against spinners. The Yorkshire-born who later went on to become the captain of his Test side is an outstanding player of spin and has performed pretty well with the willow in the subcontinent. Having represented his team in 14 matches in Asia, the right-handed batsman has accumulated 1198 runs with a couple of centuries and nine half-centuries to his name. The 28-year-old has done very well against the potent attack of India in the latter’s backyard; which is a tough task.
Root’s technique against spinners is top-class. He uses the depth of the crease very well whenever he plays on the backfoot. Although he rarely leaves the crease and comes forward to play, he is very well versed when he does that. Root is also good at picking up the length of the ball early and is equally good against the deliveries turning into him or away from him. The elegant batsman is also capable of playing sweeps, reverse-sweep and slog sweeps.
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