Cricket is a game of intense rivalries, and one of the most captivating battles in recent times has been between England’s Joe Root and Australia’s Pat Cummins. These two stalwarts of the game have faced off numerous times, with Cummins proving to be a thorn in Root’s side on more than one occasion. In this article, we will delve into their epic encounters, analyzing the mesmerizing deliveries and remarkable dismissals that have unfolded between these two titans of the cricketing world.
The Early Encounters
The first clash between Root and Cummins took place at Adelaide in 2017-18. Root, England’s captain at the time, was hoping to make a statement against the formidable Australian bowling attack. However, Cummins had other plans. With a full delivery in the channel, Root went hard, but only managed to slice the ball to third slip. It was a defining moment in the game, with Cummins celebrating the crucial wicket.
Cummins continued to trouble Root in subsequent matches. In one instance, Root fell victim to a clever delivery down the leg side. Cummins, known for his ability to extract movement off the pitch, got the ball to flick the gloves as Root attempted to turn it off his hip. It was a crucial breakthrough for Australia, leaving Root frustrated and the English fans disappointed.
The Perfect Deliveries
Cummins has showcased his mastery over the art of fast bowling in his battles against Root. On several occasions, he has produced deliveries that left the cricketing world in awe. One such delivery came during a match at Headingley. Root, known for his ability to play the pull shot with finesse, attempted to dispatch a short ball from Cummins. However, he only managed to offer a top edge, which was safely pouched by the fielder at deep square leg. It was a moment of disarray for England and jubilation for Cummins and his teammates.
Another memorable delivery from Cummins came during a match at Old Trafford. Widening his angle on the crease, Cummins angled the ball in towards Root, hitting a good length. As Root looked to defend, the ball straightened and beat his outside edge, crashing into the off stump. It was a cracker of a delivery, reminiscent of Cummins’ brilliance on the cricket field.
The Unfortunate Dismissals
Root’s battles against Cummins haven’t always been a result of the Australian pacer’s brilliance alone. On some occasions, Root has fallen victim to his own shot selection. In one instance, Root attempted to push a back-of-length delivery towards point, but the ball reared up sharply, taking the edge and flying to first slip. It was a brute of a delivery from Cummins, but Root’s shot selection didn’t help his cause.
Similarly, at Lord’s, Root pushed at a delivery outside the off stump, only to nick it straight to first slip. Cummins’ ability to generate extra bounce and movement off the pitch played a crucial role in these dismissals. It was a testament to the skill and precision of Cummins as a fast bowler.
The Statistical Dominance
Cummins’ dominance over Root can be further illustrated through their statistical record. Cummins has dismissed Root on double figures multiple times, making him Australia’s go-to bowler when it comes to dismantling England’s best batter. With 11 dismissals to his name, Cummins has proven time and again that he has Root’s number.
Conclusion
The battles between Joe Root and Pat Cummins have been nothing short of enthralling. From Cummins’ brilliant deliveries to Root’s unfortunate shot selections, these encounters have showcased the intensity and competitiveness of cricket at its finest. As the two continue to face off in future matches, one can only anticipate more breathtaking moments and a battle for the ages.
