VIDEO: Joe Root Took One Of The Greatest Slip Catches Of All Time: Mark Wood delivered a superb ball to Marnus Labuschagne, resulting in an astounding catch by Joe Root. Labuschagne had edged the ball and the on-field cry was immediately, “Catch it!” No one could have predicted what happened next, during the first innings of the fifth Ashes 2023 test at the Kia Oval.
Earlier, there had been an instance of indecision from Carey, who had dropped Brook, creating a sense of tension. This time, however, it was Bairstow who appeared to be frozen in place, his eyes locked on the ball. Root, initially thinking the wicketkeeper would attempt the catch, was caught off guard.
Joe Root’s delayed reaction became crucial when Bairstow remained stationary. It was in that moment that Root understood that the responsibility to catch fell on him. Root swiftly stuck his left hand out, pulling off an extraordinary one-handed catch just as the ball crossed his body.
Wood’s delivery had been a short one, aimed outside the off stump. The ball edged off Labuschagne’s bat and was heading into the gap between first slip and the wicketkeeper. However, Joe Root’s alertness shone through. One could argue that Bairstow deserves some credit for not attempting the catch, allowing Root, who was in a better position, to take it.
Labuschagne, known for his steady block, block, block strategy, finally met his match. His painstakingly prolonged innings came to an end, as a ball with his name on it finally found its way to him. Upon replay, it appeared that Bairstow should have indeed made an attempt. Yet, the turn of events worked in England’s favour.
VIDEO: Joe Root Took One Of The Greatest Slip Catches Of All Time
🎶 Come on, Woody, let's go party (ah ah ah yeah) 🎶 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/5UewujrAmM
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 28, 2023
Labuschagne’s dismissal was recorded as caught by Joe Root and bowled by Mark Wood, after scoring 9 runs from 82 balls. The drama took place in the second innings of the match, with England having scored 283 runs in the first.
In the end, what transpired at the Kia Oval was a moment of brilliance – a stunning catch that won’t soon be forgotten. A series of events, driven by quick thinking and reaction times, underscored the unpredictability and excitement that are part and parcel of cricket. Indeed, it was a sight to behold, a testament to the gripping game that is the Ashes.
YOU MAY ALSO READ: Watch: Ricky Ponting Fumes In Anger After England Fans Threw Grapes At Him
