TimesofIndia.com in London: Joe Root walked into the press convention at The Oval with a smile, however behind it was the frustration of a job left unfinished. After taking part in an aesthetic knock of 105, his third century of the sequence and thirteenth in opposition to India, Root admitted he was dissatisfied to not be there at stumps, guiding England dwelling. “I ought to have hit that for 4,” he mentioned, reflecting on the ball that led to his dismissal. “I missed my execution. Nothing to do with the primary innings.” England ended the fourth day at 339 for six, needing simply 35 extra runs for a 3-1 sequence win. However rain and dangerous mild halted what had formed as much as be an exciting end. Root, although, remained calm and upbeat, saying, “We’ve what we have to get throughout the road tomorrow. It’s been six weeks of cricket that has swung each methods. Wonderful spectacle to be a part of.” The England veteran additionally acknowledged the ache Chris Woakes was pushing via. “You noticed him in whites… Chris Woakes is all in!” Root mentioned, evaluating his combat to Rishabh Pant‘s defiance regardless of harm earlier within the sequence. “Woakes is able to put his physique on the road.”

He had a lighter second too when talking about Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj. “Siraj has this pretend angriness,” he joked. “I take pleasure in taking part in in opposition to him, he offers it every little thing.”With the brand new ball due early on the ultimate day and India sniffing a remaining twist, all eyes at the moment are on how lengthy England’s decrease order can maintain agency. From right here, England are nonetheless favourites — however India will want a miracle.