Joe Root credits Dukes ball quality for low scoring in England Test series

England captain Joe Root attributed the low-scoring nature of the 2026 summer to the quality of the Dukes balls used in the Test series against Pakistan. Following England’s 194-run victory at Lord’s, which secured a 2-0 series lead, Root noted the balls appear firmer with a different seam lacquer. He suggested the balls may be causing damage to the pitch surfaces, contributing to unpredictable movement that has challenged batters throughout the summer. While no centuries have been recorded by either side across four innings, England has successfully adapted to the conditions to clinch the series with one match remaining. Root addressed his own recent struggles with the bat, specifically regarding frequent LBW dismissals, and emphasized the necessity of maintaining a composed approach to problem-solving during difficult batting conditions.

• 6:51 PMYahoo Sports — Joe Root explains why balls could be to blame for low-scoring summer after England beat Pakistan