Sledging is a part and parcel of today’s sport. In cricket, there have been many occasions where we have witnessed players engaging in banters on the field. There have been several moments have players have also exchanged abuses as well. However, a little bit of sledging is allowed and even taken in good spirit.

England red-ball skipper Joe Root recently in an interview opened up about some of his experiences of sledging on the field. The 29-year-old revealed that there have many occasions in his career when he has been called Ellen DeGeneres. Root also said that he feels there is a likeness between them.

‘I think there’s a likeness there’: Joe Root

“I’ve been called Ellen DeGeneres on a number of occasions over the course of my career,” Root told BBC Radio 1. “I think there’s a likeness there,” he added.

Ellen DeGeneres is an American comedian and television host. She has a similar haircut to that of Joe Root. The England captain also went on to say that he understands why he has been called by this name.

The right-handed batsman was appearing on the pop music station to select some of his favourite records. He selected ‘Mardy Bum’ by the Arctic Monkeys and ‘She Moves In Her Own Way’ by the Kooks as his opening two ‘Mancave Anthems’. His choices also included ‘The Greatest Show’ as a tribute to England star all-rounder and his teammate, Ben Stokes.

Due to coronavirus, all kinds of sporting activities have been cancelled across the world. The English cricket summer has also been suspended until July 1 for now. It was informed by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) a few days ago that, no official cricket match will be held in the country until July 1.

There have been also reports that the international and domestic matches scheduled until July 1 will be shifted for some other time during the summer. Apart from this, the inaugural season of the Hundred has also been called on hold for now. There is no official statement by the ECB on the league yet. Joe Root has been signed by Trent Rockets for the first season of The Hundred.