Joe Root blames Dukes ball seam for high LBW dismissal rate

England batter Joe Root has suggested that the characteristics of the current Dukes cricket balls may be contributing to his high number of LBW dismissals during the 2026 summer series. Root has been dismissed LBW seven times out of nine total dismissals this season, scoring 265 runs at an average of 29.44.

Root noted that the balls appear to have a different lacquer, a more pronounced seam, and a harder surface, which he believes may cause more movement and leave deeper marks on bats and pitches. While he acknowledged he has no concrete evidence, he pointed out that four of his seven LBW dismissals were ruled as ‘umpire’s call.’

Dukes has denied making any changes to its manufacturing process. Despite the recent struggles, Root expressed confidence in his ability to problem-solve and overcome this phase. England recently secured a 194-run victory over Pakistan at Lord’s, marking their first Test series win since December 2024.