Joe Root addresses batting form as he pursues Test run record

England batter Joe Root has defended his recent Test performance amid a statistically lean home summer. Currently averaging 29.44, Root has recorded only two scores over 50 in recent appearances. The 35-year-old attributed his difficulties to challenging conditions and the physical characteristics of the Dukes ball, which he noted has displayed inconsistent behavior. Despite being dismissed LBW nine times across his last seven Tests, Root expressed confidence in his ability to regain consistency. His pursuit of Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921 Test runs remains his primary objective as he continues his second term as captain. Under his leadership, England recently secured a series win against Pakistan with a 194-run victory at Lord’s.

• 4:36 PMYahoo Sports — 'Umpires' calls and different ball': Joe Root explains lean run as he chases Sachin Tendulkar’s record