Ahead of his maiden IPL stint, Rajasthan Royals’ star English recruit Joe Root said he will try to get thebest out of himself and “be unpredictable for bowlers” in the tournament beginning on Friday.
“I’ll try and be me as much as I can and try to be unpredictable for bowlers. I am sure I will smile and enjoy it, and will try to get the best out of myself,” Root said in a Royals release.
Ahead of a practice session here, the 32-year-old spoke about his new team and how he seems to be feeling in the group. “Everyone seems to want to create that feel around things that it’s more than just performances on the field. They said they were delighted to get me in the auction.”
England’s former Test cricket captain is looking forward to the season, which could be a whole new experience for him. “It’s an experience that you can’t replicate anywhere else in the world.
“I’ve never experienced it before. So it’s all going to be very new to me which, for an experienced player who has played a lot of international cricket, is really exciting.
“I’ve heard a lot of things. And I’m really looking forward to living it now.”
Sharing his thoughts on the Royals’ team, Root said: “Last year was an exceptional year for the franchise (as they finished runners-up after losing to Gujarat Titans in the final) and I’ve always enjoyed watching (skipper) Sanju (Samson) play.
“I think he’s a hell of a talent and seems to keep growing every year as a player and as a leader.”
The stylish batter also spoke about how he is preparing himself for the format. “I’m just trying to be as consistent as I can be.
“You can always work on things slowly and in the background. But ultimately, you are trying to make sure that your strengths are as good as they possibly can be.
“And that you know you’re switched on and ready for any situation and scenario that you find yourself in, and you have that clarity under pressure.”
All said and done, will Root be a part of the Royals playing XI? The Englishman might not be too worried about that, but for his franchise, it certainly is a point to ponder.
There’s absolutely no doubt about Root’s quality and class as a batsman, but he’s not considered for selection in England’s T20I side. The last time he played a T20 game was in August last year during The Hundred for Trent Rockets.
Even in that game, he didn’t get a chance to bat or bowl. In the Royals final XI, Jos Buttler upfront and finisher Shimron Hetmyer are confirmed of their places and so is distinguished New Zealand left-arm quick Trent Boult, unless they have fitness or injury issues to deal with. Will Root then fill up the fourth and final overseas quota slot?
