‘Root is an excellent batter but a POOR captain’: Former Australia skipper Ian Chappell questions England star’s tactics and selection with tourists facing second heavy Test defeat in Ashes series
- Ian Chappell has cranked up the heat on under-fire England captain Joe Root
- England are facing a second crushing defeat by Australia in the second Test
- England resume day five on 82-4 – chasing an improbable 468 for victory
Australia legend Ian Chappell has slammed the leadership of England captain Joe Root during the first two Test matches of the Ashes series.
England are facing a second crushing defeat by Australia as they resume day five of the second Test on 82-4 – chasing an improbable 468 for victory.
And former Australia skipper Chappell has cranked up the heat on Root by questioning his decision-making, including team selection, bowling plans and deciding to bat first at the Gabba.
Former Australia skipper Ian Chappell has cranked up the heat on England captain Joe Root
‘What is the opposite definition of excellent leadership? There’s a good chance it can be summed up by Joe Root’s captaincy,’ Chappell told ESPNcricinfo.
‘Root is an excellent batter but a poor captain. it would not be unfair to describe him as an ordinary and unlucky captain.
‘Rarely do you find a long-term captain who is lacking in imagination but is also lucky. A fortunate captain is usually lucky because the players believe he is some kind of miracle-worker and things tend to work out because of the team’s belief.
‘It showed again at Adelaide Oval that misfortune follows Root’s team around. The England bowlers beat the bat regularly but had little to show for their honest toil.
Chappell has questioned Root’s leadership during first two Test matches of the Ashes series
England are staring down the barrel of a second heavy defeat in this winter’s Ashes series
‘However, the England selectors’ tolerance of mediocrity was also on view when Jos Buttler, who is far from their best keeper, was again chosen and made yet more inexcusable blunders.
‘No amount of blustering bluff at press conferences can cover up for the selection mistakes that have been made by England.
‘Root had to find a way to be ahead in the Adelaide Test if England were to surge back into the series.
‘Unfortunately, they again let the opportunity slip with some questionable bowling and even more negative tactics.’