Ashes 2023: England have played their best cricket in Manchester, says Joe Root

By India Today Sports Desk: Former England captain and batter Joe Root feels that England have played their best cricket in the Manchester Test match. The hosts have dominated the fourth Test match of the Ashes 2023 series are on the cusp of victory. However, their plans might be dampened due to the rain in Manchester, which might not allow for a lot of cricket on the final day of the fourth Test match.

“I thought it was our best cricket here, of this series anyway,” Root said on Sky Sports ahead of the final day of the Test match.

Ashes, 4th Test: Final Day Live

The fourth Test match started on 19 July, 2023, with England looking to level the series after trailing 1-2. The home team’s strategy was clear from the outset after dominating the first day with the ball – amass as many runs as possible in the first innings to put pressure on the Australians. This approach was evident when England piled up a mammoth total of 592, their highest in a home Ashes Test since 1985. Jonny Bairstow was the star of the show on Day 3, smashing a thrilling 99*, while Zak Crawley dominated Day 2 of the Test match with a significant 189 runs.

“Zak (Crawley) led the way and Moeen (Ali) was fantastic. We knew rain was a possibility later on in the game, it sort of mapped itself out for us what we needed to do,” Root said.

However, the weather played spoilsport, with heavy rain forecasted over the weekend. Despite the adverse conditions, England’s bowlers, led by Mark Wood, managed to make crucial breakthroughs. Wood’s high pace and hostility resulted in him taking 3-17, leaving Australia at 113-4 at the end of day three, a considerable 162 runs behind.

On the rain-hit fourth day, Australia resumed at 113-4, needing 162 runs to make England bat again. Marnus Labuschagne and Mitch Marsh showed resilience, forging a 103-run partnership that kept Australia’s hopes of a draw alive. Labuschagne, in particular, was a thorn in England’s side, scoring his 11th Test century before falling to Joe Root. His departure left Australia at 214-5, setting the stage for a nail-biting final day.

Despite the weather interruptions, England remained hopeful of securing a victory. Their aggressive approach, both in batting and bowling, had put them in a commanding position. However, the looming threat of rain on the final day added an element of uncertainty to the proceedings.

“I think we executed that pretty well and go ourselves into a strong position. It would feel a little bit of a shame to not at least get the opportunity to get out there today for a good chance to take those wickets. If we get out there, we will throw everything at it,” Root concluded.

As the match stands delicately poised, England’s chances of leveling the Ashes series hang in the balance. Regardless of the outcome, the Manchester Test has been a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic execution.