OVER BLOWN Root plays forward defensive

DOTT’S SHOT AT VICTORY

JOE ROOT has defended England against accusations that they have “over-bowled” the injured Jofra Archer.

The diagnosis of a stress fracture in Archer’s right elbow this week brought with it a wave of criticism about the handling of him over his first nine months in international cricket.

England captain Root denied they had been careless with their No.1 bowling asset but hinted there may have to be tweaks to his workload when he returns.

Since making his ODI debut against Ireland last May, no bowler has been asked for more overs in England’s cause than Archer.

But Root insisted that the finger of blame should not point solely at England given the amount of cricket he has played in his career.

He said: “I don’t think he’s been over-bowled. You look at the amount of cricket he’s played before he played for England.

“An important part of it now is the amount of cricket there is, it’s pretty full-on if you’re playing all three formats.

“Chuck in the Indian Premier League and Big Bash and stuff he’s played beforehand and that’s a lot of cricket.”

Archer, who had been hoping to play in the

UNLUCKY 13: Dott

GRAEME DOTT is desperate to end his 13-year wait for a trophy.

The flying Scot booked his place in today’s World Grand Prix final by beating Tom Ford on Friday.

And the 2006 world champion, 42, knows victory in Cheltenham would be his first ranking title since the 2007 China Open.

“I fancy the job as long as I can get involved in the match,” said Dott, who has reached his 10th career ranking final.

“I’m not exactly a prolific winner but I have been playing well and feeling as if this has been coming all season.

Dott contested two ranking finals two years ago – at the German Masters in Berlin and the Snooker Shootout in Watford.

Frustratingly he lost both so it’s little wonder he is hoping to make it third time lucky in his quest for silverware.

“It would be nice to finally win one,” he said.