NewKerala.com

Neser's Perfect Plan: How a Rare Bouncer Dismissed Root in Ashes Thriller

Australian all-rounder Michael Neser explained that his plan to bowl a surprise bouncer to Joe Root was a rare tactical success, leading to the England batter's dismissal for 160. Neser praised Root as a "class player" and a future all-time great, acknowledging how difficult he is to bowl to when in form. He also highlighted Travis Head's unbeaten 91, noting his clear intent and amazing hand-eye coordination that keeps the scoreboard moving. Neser concluded by commenting on the heated exchange between teammate Marnus Labuschagne and England captain Ben Stokes, calling Labuschagne a strong competitor who can get under an opponent's skin.

Key Points: Neser on Root Dismissal: "Rare Occasion It Came Off" | Ashes 2025

  • Neser's surprise bouncer plan for Root
  • Root hailed as a future all-time great
  • Travis Head's aggressive 91* boosts Australia
  • Labuschagne-Stokes heated exchange before stumps
  • Australia trails by 218 runs at SCG
2 min read

Ashes 2025-26: One of those rare occasions where it actually came off, says Neser on Root dismissal

Australia's Michael Neser reveals the plan behind Joe Root's wicket, praises Travis Head's batting, and comments on the Stokes-Labuschagne clash in the Ashes.

"It's one of those rare occasions where it actually came off and worked. - Michael Neser"

Sydney, Jan 5

Australia's seam bowling all-rounder Michael Neser said the plan behind executing Joe Root's dismissal was 'one of those rare occasions where it actually came off'. On the second day of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Neser finished with four wickets, including taking out Root, who made 160 - his 41st Test century.

"I haven't bowled a bouncer to him in ages, and I think I might surprise him if I try to bowl a bouncer there. And it's one of those rare occasions where it actually came off and worked. The chances don't come very often, so you've got to try to take everything. I've always prided myself on catching," Neser told reporters at the end of the day's play.

At the same time, Neser acknowledged that Root is not an easy batter to bowl to. "He's a tricky one to bowl to, especially when he's in that touch. Your margin of error is very small.

"He seems to manipulate the ball very well off the stumps. Even then, when you go a bit wider in the channel, he works you off down to third man so well. He's a class player. That's why he's going to go down as one of the all-time greats," he added.

By the time the day ended, Travis Head's unbeaten 91 from 87 balls took Australia to 166/2 in 34.1 overs and trail England by 218 runs. Neser said Head is really clear about what he is doing.

"Knowing him from his younger days, he's still figuring out his game, but at the moment, he seems really clear about what he's doing.

"Every ball he's looking to score. His hand-eye (coordination) is amazing. You think you've beaten him with the ball, and all of a sudden, he's slapped you through point for four. We all love the way Travis bats because the scoreboard seems to move," added Neser.

He signed off by giving his take on the heated exchange between Marnus Labuschagne and England skipper Ben Stokes just before stumps. Stokes eventually had the last laugh by dismissing Labuschagne for 48. He said his teammate is "such a strong competitor that he can get under your skin".

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
Great sportsmanship from Neser to praise Root like that. That's what makes Test cricket special. The mind games, the respect between opponents. Travis Head's innings sounds explosive! The Ashes always delivers drama.
A
Aman W
Honestly, as much as I enjoy the Ashes, the coverage in India focuses too much on it sometimes. We have our own domestic cricket and series that deserve more spotlight. Just a thought.
V
Vikram M
Root's 160 and still gets out to a planned bouncer! Shows even the best have weaknesses. Neser bowled smartly. This is why bowlers need to be students of the game. Our Indian bowlers should take note for the next England series.
S
Sarah B
The Labuschagne-Stokes exchange is what we tune in for! Pure passion. Neser seems like a very balanced player, giving credit where it's due. Head is in scary form. Australia looking strong.
K
Karthik V
Watching from Mumbai with my morning chai! Nothing like Test cricket. Root is a proper batsman, technique so solid. But well done to Neser for sticking to a plan. Reminds me of Bumrah's setups. Quality bowling always wins.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50