Joe Root, England’s former cricket captain, has recently made headlines by assembling his ultimate cricket team, an XI that surprisingly does not feature the Indian pace sensation, Jasprit Bumrah. This selection has sparked debates and discussions across the cricketing world, particularly given Bumrah’s exceptional record and unique bowling style. Here’s a deep dive into Root’s choices and the rationale behind not including one of the modern game’s most feared bowlers.
The Selection

Root’s team includes some of the cricketing legends from various eras, showcasing a blend of batting prowess, all-round capabilities, and bowling mastery.
Joe Root’s XI consists of:
Michael Vaughan – An opener with a knack for big scores and captaincy experience.
Alastair Cook – Selected as captain, known for his resilience and run accumulation.
Sachin Tendulkar – The ‘Master Blaster’, arguably the greatest batsman of all time.
Jacques Kallis – A true all-rounder, excelling in both departments.
Virat Kohli – Modern-day great, known for his consistency and fitness.
AB de Villiers – For his versatility, innovation, and game-changing abilities.
Kumar Sangakkara – An elegant left-hander with a phenomenal record against all types of bowling.
Andrew Flintoff – Another all-rounder, famous for his match-winning performances.
Shane Warne – The iconic leg-spinner, with magic in his deliveries.
Mitchell Johnson – Known for his devastating pace and swing.
Glenn McGrath – The metronome of fast bowling, with an incredible consistency.
The Omission of Jasprit Bumrah
Despite Bumrah’s standout performances, particularly in Test cricket where he has dismantled batting line-ups with his unconventional action and pinpoint accuracy, he did not make it into Root’s XI. Bumrah’s ability to bowl yorkers at will, his mastery over reverse swing, and his crucial role in India’s recent successes make his exclusion a topic of much discussion.
One could argue that Root’s selection reflects a preference for traditional cricketing greats or perhaps a strategy based on the conditions he envisions for this dream team. McGrath and Johnson offer a balanced pace attack, with McGrath’s consistency and Johnson’s aggression providing a dynamic duo. Warne, on the other hand, adds the spin dimension, which might have been deemed essential for an all-time XI.
The Context of Selection
When selecting an all-time XI, the conditions of play, the era, and personal experiences play significant roles. Root, having played against many of these players or having watched their careers unfold, might lean towards those who have left a profound impact on him or the game in general. Bumrah, while a recent phenomenon, might not yet have the historical weight or the nostalgia factor that some of the older players bring to the table.
Moreover, team balance is crucial. Root’s team has two versatile all-rounders in Kallis and Flintoff, which might have influenced the decision not to include another specialist bowler. Bumrah’s exclusion could also be seen in light of the team’s composition, where the need for another pace option was perhaps less pressing given Johnson’s and McGrath’s presence.
The Reaction From Fans and Critics
The cricketing community, especially fans from India where Bumrah is seen as a national hero, have expressed disappointment over his non-inclusion. Social media platforms buzzed with opinions, some defending Root’s choices while others argued vehemently for Bumrah’s inclusion. Critics pointed out Bumrah’s exceptional figures in Test cricket, his role in T20 cricket, and his impact in crucial matches like the World Cup finals.
However, the selection of an all-time XI is inherently subjective. It’s about personal cricketing philosophy, experience, and sometimes, even intuition. Root’s choice might be seen as a nod to the cricket he grew up watching, a period where players like McGrath, Warne, and Tendulkar were not just players but icons shaping the sport.
The Future of Such Selections
As cricket evolves, with players like Bumrah bringing new dimensions to the game, future selections might see a shift. The debate over who should or shouldn’t be in an all-time XI will continue, reflecting the sport’s rich history and its ongoing transformation. Each generation of players adds to the legacy, and today’s greats like Bumrah will undoubtedly influence how future dream teams are assembled.
Looking Ahead
Joe Root’s all-time XI, while missing the modern-day marvel that is Jasprit Bumrah, encapsulates the spirit of cricket through different epochs. It’s a testament to the legends who have played the game and the personal and cultural influences on such selections. While fans might argue over the merit of including or excluding Bumrah, the beauty of cricket lies in these very discussions, debates, and the celebration of its history through selections like these. Root’s team might not cater to everyone’s taste, but it surely provides a platform for appreciating the rich tapestry of cricket’s past and present.