ENG vs IND 2018: Joe Root Dreaming Of 5-0 Whitewash After Thumping Win At Lord's

Brimming with confidence after dismantling India in the second England vs India Test, England skipper Joe Root said it would be dream to whitewash the world number one Test side in the five-match series.

Before the series had started, the majority had predicted that the two teams would play out a closely-fought series. In fact, some had even predicted that India would go on to win the series due to England’s recent performances in the longest format of the game. Prior to the ongoing series, England had lost two and drew one of their last three series. On the other hand, India had won nine of their last 10 series.

However, past record as well as rankings made little difference as England thrashed the visitors by an innings and 159 runs in the second game to go 2-0 up in the series. It was a thoroughly dominating performance from the hosts. Bowling first, they bowled out India for just 107 with James Anderson picking up 5 for 20. In reply, Joe Root & Co. piled up 396 for 7 before declaring.

The home side then went on to bowl India out for just 130 to seal a thumping win.

And Root is now dreaming of completing a 5-0 whitewash over India.  England have achieved the feat only once when they blanked the tourists 5-0 in 1959. At the same time, Root warned his teammates to guard against complacency.

“That would be the dream, to put in five complete performances and have five wins, but it’s important we don’t get complacent, arrogant or look too far ahead.

“We’re playing against the No 1 side in the world and they have some talented players,” he said.

He further lauded Chris Woakes for his stunning all-round performance. Woakes had got the chance in the playing eleven due to Ben Stokes’ absence and the allrounder grabbed the chance with both hands. He scored his maiden Test ton and took 4 wickets to bag the Man of the Match award.

“Ben’s absence created an opportunity for Chris to come in and perform,” he said. “He was outstanding, and it’s an example to the guys on the edge of this team. When you get the chance, make it as hard as possible to leave you out.”

The third Test would get underway on Saturday at Trent Bridge.