Ben Stokes Considers Opening with Joe Root to Surprise India in First Test

England captain Ben Stokes has revealed a surprising plan for the first Test against India in Hyderabad on Thursday. Stokes is considering opening the bowling with experienced batter Joe Root. The move aims to capitalize on the Indian tracks, well-suited for spinners.

With this strategy, England’s squad includes four spinners among the sixteen players. Stokes believes Root’s off-breaks could pose a challenge for India’s batters, especially against left-handed opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Root’s ability to turn the ball away from the bat makes him a potentially effective option.

In a pre-match press conference, Stokes admitted that the decision to open with Root would be a gut feeling. He also emphasized the importance of adapting to the situation and not going in with preconceived ideas about the pitch.

Root, known for his batting prowess, has also showcased his off-spin skills in the past. With six Test wickets to his name, he has dismissed notable players such as Shikhar Dhawan, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, Usman Khawaja, and Quinton de Kock.

The Test format usually sees pacers opening the game, regardless of the conditions. If Root opens the bowling, it would redefine the dynamics of the match and provide an unexpected challenge for the Indian team.

The decision to include Root as a bowler reflects Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum’s desire to select a well-rounded team that can best adapt to the conditions presented in front of them. The England captain has embraced his role in making selections and decisions for the team, as he gains more experience in leadership.