IPL 2021 : Tough decision to stay out of the IPL auction this year, feels Joe Root
Joe Root, who hasn’t registered himself for the IPL auction this year, has proclaimed that he desperately wanted to play in the IPL, however, his tough Test schedule this year hasn’t helped the cause.
A fantastic Test and ODI batsman, Joe Root has never cemented his place in the England T20I side thanks to the insane amount of competition in the 20-over format.
However, from BBL to Vitality Blast, he had shown a glimpse of his attacking shelf but an IPL contract was seemingly too far away.
Root didn’t even register himself in the auction this time, preferably looking at the 17-match marathon Test run they have this year. He admitted the same in an interview as well, saying it was a tough decision but he had to take owing to his Test commitment.
“It’s a very difficult decision. I am desperate to be part of an IPL season and hopefully, a few more beyond,” Root said.
“With the amount of Test cricket, in particular, this year, didn’t feel like it was the right time, didn’t feel like I could throw all my energy into it, which I think it deserves.”
Root hints at being part of mega auction
This year’s IPL auction, which will take place in Chennai, just after the second Test concludes, will be a smaller one, as the BCCI deferred the mega auction before adding a new team next year. Root feels that will provide more opportunities to be a part of the IPL.
“I don’t think it would serve English cricket best with what’s to come… So, a very difficult decision. Hopefully next year, there’s more of an opportunity to potentially be a part of the IPL, or at least be in the auction,” he added.