Cricket

“Root Can Be A Bit Of A Golden Arm..” , Says Ollie Pope Ahead Of Test Series Against Pakistan

England’s stand-in captain Ollie Pope has acknowledged the potential impact Joe Root’s “golden arm” can have in breaking crucial partnerships with his off-spin, especially if the pitch in Multan proves favorable for spinners in the opening Test against Pakistan.

"Root Can Be A Bit Of A Golden Arm.." , Says Ollie Pope Ahead Of Test Series Against Pakistan 3

Root, already renowned as one of the “Fab Four” for his exceptional batting in Test cricket, has quietly developed a useful knack for breaking important stands with his part-time spin, having taken 69 wickets in 146 Tests at an economy rate of 3.28.

England’s bowling attack for this Test includes their frontline spinners Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir, but Pope remains confident that Root can step up if the pitch flattens out, or if Leach needs a break. Root has proven to be a valuable option in similar conditions, offering England depth and versatility in the spin department.

Pope spoke highly of Root’s ability to deliver key breakthroughs, saying, “We know Root can be a bit of a golden arm sometimes… Root is a great guy to have, especially if the surface flattens.”

The return of Jack Leach is another key boost for England. Leach, who last played during the India tour earlier this year, sustained an injury in the Hyderabad Test but is fit again and ready to contribute. His performance on the last England tour of Pakistan, where he took 15 wickets in three Tests, will be crucial in this series, especially when combined with the talented Shoaib Bashir. The pair’s partnership has previously left Pakistan batters struggling to cope with the spin threat.

xr:d:DAFl-StY21g:3201,j:8883767541653137841,t:24020102

Pakistan’s Playing XI:
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed

England’s Playing XI:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir

This Test series offers England a unique opportunity to continue their recent subcontinent success, with Root’s all-round abilities and Leach’s spin returning to the spotlight. Meanwhile, Pakistan will look to capitalize on their strong lineup, led by captain Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam.

Disha Rojhe

Recent Posts

Bizarre: ₹1000 Monthly Aid Paid to ‘Sunny Leone’ Under Women’s Welfare Scheme in Chhattisgarh

A fraudulent account in the name of Bollywood actor Sunny Leone was discovered receiving funds…

6 minutes ago

Libra 2025 Horoscope: A Year of Harmony and Bold Decisions

Libra (September 23 – October 22): The year 2025 is one of balance, growth, and…

14 minutes ago

Hayley Matthews Reflects on West Indies’ Crushing 211-Run Defeat Against India Women

West Indies Skipper Calls for Improvement After India Dominates in the First ODI with Stellar…

15 minutes ago

Senseless: Man Sets A Stranger on Fire Inside New York Subway Train, Watches Her Burn to Death

In a horrific act of violence, a man ignited a woman’s clothing on a Brooklyn…

16 minutes ago

Renuka Singh Shines with Maiden ODI Five-Wicket Haul as India Crush West Indies by 211 Runs

Pacer Renuka Singh’s Stellar Spell and Smriti Mandhana’s Explosive Knock Seal Dominant Victory for India…

23 minutes ago

Delhi Shivers Amid Rain and Fog, But Air Quality Stays ‘Severe’ at AQI 410

Despite light rain and a drop in temperature, Delhi's air quality remains hazardous, with multiple…

34 minutes ago