Root Proud of Squad Strength

England wrap up 3-1 victory

Joe Root England

Captain Joe Root was full of praise for his England squad following a 3-1 series success in South Africa.

England wrapped up an overall away victory by bagging a 191-run win in Johannesburg.

“We’re very satisfied with the victory,” Root said to Sky Sports Cricket after the win.

“I’m very proud of the boys. It’s very much been a squad effort as well and we’ve had some wonderful support too throughout the whole trip.

“It’s very exciting. There’s a number of guys that have performed that played in this game, but not just that. Guys like Jofra (Archer) at the start of the series with a five-for, Dom Bess as well making a big contribution.

“It’s been a real squad effort from a number of guys that are very much at the start of their international careers and that’s a very promising sign when you put that against some very experienced players.

“It’s been a fantastic tour for our development as a Test team and we hope that can continue moving forward this winter.”

England will now take on South Africa in three one-day games and three T20Is as they build towards the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.

England are currently priced at 5.50 (9/2) third-favourites with bet365 to win the tournament.

Hosts Australia remain favourites at 3.75 (11/4) with the same firm. India are second-favourites at 4.50 (7/2).

Pace ace Wood pleased to take his chance

Mark Wood wasted no time taking his opportunity in South Africa.

The pace bowler shone with the bat as well as the ball to help England to a memorable success.

Wood was unsure if he’d be ready to feature at the Wanderers after a quick turnaround between the third and fourth Tests.

He said: “There was a bit of doubt going into the game but boy am I glad I played now. I’m over the moon.

“I’ve had a lot of dark days. Credit has to go to the backroom staff. The physio Craigy (Craig De Weymarn) patched me up pretty good.

“Everybody’s been pretty supportive, my team-mates, the crowd. (England coach) Chris Silverwood tries to get me out there just to have fun and that’s what I tried to do this game.”

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Chris is passionate about all forms of cricket and loves writing about the sport. He has a background in both sport and news journalism and has written cricket and other sports content for several years now. Chris has written about all levels of the game from regional club cricket in England to the international stage. He now brings that experience to the iGaming industry where he combines it with his love of betting. Chris loves to bet on many different sports, but particularly enjoys seeking out the best value bets on offer and passing that on through his coverage.