Vaughan Rebuts Lehmann's Remarks on Root, Anticipates Ashes Century
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New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) Former England skipper Michael Vaughan has refuted Darren Lehmann's recent criticism of Joe Root, after the ex-Australia coach suggested that Root does not qualify as an all-time great for not having scored a century in Australia during three Ashes series.
While discussing on ABC during the initial Test match between Australia and India, Lehmann raised doubts about Root's status as an all-time great due to his lack of centuries in Australia over three Ashes series. He also placed Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Virat Kohli ahead of Root, citing their achievements in challenging global conditions.
"No, he is a level below for that reason. They have scored runs globally under difficult circumstances against various opponents, and that is the sole reason stopping Joe Root. I consider him a remarkable player, but does he belong in the category of all-time greats? I don't place him in that realm. One must score centuries worldwide," Lehmann remarked.
In response, Vaughan labeled Lehmann's statements as “nonsense,” emphasizing Root's remarkable career statistics, which include 12,777 Test runs and 35 centuries. He is confident that Root, who has not yet achieved a century in 27 innings in Australia, will finally reach that milestone in the upcoming year.
"What a load of nonsense. We are discussing a player who could easily - if he remains fit and his back stays strong - surpass Sachin Tendulkar in a few years (for total Test runs). Just because he hasn’t scored a hundred here in Australia doesn’t define everything," Vaughan stated.
"You would wish to come here and score runs. However, he will arrive next year in the manner he is currently playing in this England team at number four - playing the Joe Root way rather than the Bazball way - I have a sneaky suspicion that might come back to haunt Darren next year," he added.
He indicated that Root's present form and the England team's strategy could lead to achievements on Australian turf, despite the hurdles posed by the Kookaburra ball.
"He might score a couple of centuries next year, and given the way England is performing, especially against this Kookaburra ball, I believe it will be an outstanding contest," Vaughan concluded.
