What do we think is a good score on this pitch? 250+

[Luis Anaconda]

The idea that Root needed a new mentality or approach to test cricket was always laughable. Ditto Stokes. Those two are exceptional test batsmen who have always put puressure on bowlers and scored at a fair lick playing their natural game.

Bazball is for the others. Let Root be Root!

I noticed he was playing the spinners on the front foot today, which is unusual for him. I am assuming there was some uneven bounce earlier in the day. That will only get worse so runs on the board is crucial

Bazball is just a silly term imo - Root has generally thrived since Stokes took over. He's always been a player of the white-ball age and some silly shots get him out sometimes. Played the conditions beautifully today of course

[Peter]

Bazball is just a silly term imo - Root has generally thrived since Stokes took over. He's always been a player of the white-ball age and some silly shots get him out sometimes. Played the conditions beautifully today of course

True. But he doesn't need to be encouraged to be more adventurous. His natural rhythm is already perfect for test cricket.

Same with Stokes. You look at his innings at Headingley- people forget he scored 6 off about 80 the balls the previous evening. Like Root, he is good enough and shrewd enough to judge and play the situation.

[Luis Anaconda]

True. But he doesn't need to be encouraged to be more adventurous. His natural rhythm is already perfect for test cricket.

Same with Stokes. You look at his innings at Headingley- people forget he scored 6 off about 80 the balls the previous evening. Like Root, he is good enough and shrewd enough to judge and play the situation.

Absolutely agree - and with your point about the others above. But trusting them does also mean accepting the foibles and I think Root genuinely likes playing the "naughty shot" though he doesn't need to

[Peter]

Absolutely agree - and with your point about the others above. But trusting them does also mean accepting the foibles and I think Root genuinely likes playing the "naughty shot" though he doesn't need to

He does. He has always had a problem leaving outside off stump. He gets bored seeing the ball constantly fly by and can end up wafting at one.

The best thing about Bazball is convincing players it is ok to fail and it is ok to be yourself. Aside from the others I mentioned, it brought Bairstow back to form (prior to this series) and that is a huge boost for the side.

And... has to be said this side has never been better to watch than it is now.