Sri Lankan opener Dimuth Karunaratne has discussed potential strategies for dismissing England’s Joe Root, highlighting Root’s dominant form in the ongoing Test series. With Root having scored 42, 62*, 143, and 103 in the first four innings of the series, Karunaratne believes a revised approach might be necessary.
In a pre-match interview for the upcoming 3rd Test, Karunaratne proposed a strategy of “boring out” Root, suggesting that sometimes a more defensive approach might be more effective than aggressive tactics. “We need to look at his past performances more closely and see where he’s got out,” Karunaratne said. “Some players don’t like it when we ask them to be less aggressive. Sometimes boring batters out can also be a tactic.”
Root’s impressive record against Sri Lanka, with an average of 67.55 and six centuries in 12 Tests, has been a significant challenge for the visitors. His strong performances have helped England secure a 2-0 lead in the series.
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Karunaratne also noted the adaptability of some players, singling out Kamindu Mendis for his ability to adjust to conditions in England. However, he observed that other Sri Lankan batters, apart from Root, have struggled in the challenging English conditions. “Every game is quite tough. In England, the conditions are tough for batters,” Karunaratne remarked.
The third Test of the series begins on September 6 at The Oval, where Sri Lanka will aim to find a way to counter Root’s form and make a comeback in the series.
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