Joe Root confident of beating India after Pakistan triumph

06/04/2018

Joe Root believes that England’s win over Pakistan in the second Test match, after a woeful Test run, has restored their confidence and it would help them in beating India. England defeated Pakistan comprehensively by an innings and 55 runs to bring their Ashes and New Zealand misery to an end.

England were well off their best in the first Test match against Pakistan at Lord’s, where they lost the Test match by 9 wickets to the visiting team. However, they did make a comeback in the second Test match and got their much awaited win at Headingley. Joe Root’s men defeated Pakistan, which made sure that the two match series was shared. The win also boosted the confidence of the team following their Ashes misery and the 1-0 loss in New Zealand.

Root rightly pointed out that the team was below par in the first Test match, but praised the team for their character and brilliant performance in the second Test match.

“We were below par [at Lord’s], we know that,” Root told Sky Sports in the post-match presentation. “We were down on confidence from a tough winter, but we came back and showed the character, showed we were a better side. It was a tough week and we responded well, we spoke about character but wanted to play with pride and enjoyment. We learned quickly and adapted well to the conditions.”

When asked if they could challenge India, he said, “I think so. It’s about making sure we continue to improve and have good weeks like this, taking confidence forward.”

Root thought that the confidence gained by the win would help them in challenging India in the upcoming series. The skipper was particularly impressed with the performances of Keaton Jennings, Sam Curran and Dom Bess in Leeds, all three contributing to England’s huge victory.

“I think they did a really good job,” he said. “Keaton played well first up, the two young lads performed exceptionally well, exactly what you want for your attack.

“I said we had a point to prove and a lot of hard work to do. We’ve got time to achieve that, this is a good step and chance to take it forward.”