Joe Root has been hailed as a “role model” for standing up to alleged homophobic remarks during the third Test between England and the West Indies in St Lucia.
The England captain responded after an incident with fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, stating: “There is nothing wrong with being gay.”
Gabriel was warned by the umpires for his language, with Root going on to hit a century to place the tourists in a commanding position to claim the final Test of the series, trailing 2-0.
And Nasser Hussein has lead praise for Root, insisting his words are more important than his personal batting milestone in the second innings or even a potential victory.
“I don’t know who said what to whom,” wrote the former England skipper. “But boy do I applaud Joe Root’s reaction here.
“For me his twelve words as a role model will be in the end more important than a test hundred or possible victory.”
Ian Wright also chimed in, writing: “Joe Root. Well played and well said Sir.”
Root would not confirm the exact nature of the comments that sparked his reaction.
While match referee Jeff Crowe was satisfied that no homophobic language had been detected.
