Joe Root, the former England cricket captain, is battling a “stinking cold,” but his excitement is palpable as he prepares for the upcoming Ashes series. Speaking via Zoom, a platform he frequently used during his captaincy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Root reflects on past challenges and his ambitions for the series.
During the 2021-22 Ashes tour, Root appeared worn out, grappling with both team errors and his own. England, having played more Test cricket than any other team during the pandemic, faced a fresher Australian side. Root’s struggles, particularly with deliveries through the gully and third-man regions, fueled criticism about his performance in Australia.
Root’s Past Ashes Experiences
Root’s history in Australia has been tumultuous. He recalls the 2013-14 tour, a 5-0 loss, and his first tour as captain in 2017-18, marred by off-field controversies involving players like Cameron Bancroft and Jonny Bairstow. The 2021-22 series was overshadowed by COVID-19, with Root describing the team as “absolutely cooked” after playing 20-odd Test matches under restrictive conditions.
Despite these challenges, Root remains optimistic. “This time around, I’ve got all that experience to lean on,” he says. “I’m playing some nice cricket, I’ve not got the responsibility of captaincy, and I’m determined to just enjoy what a brilliant tour it’s going to be.”
Freedom from Captaincy
Root relinquished the captaincy to Ben Stokes in 2022, a move that has allowed him to focus solely on his batting. In 41 Tests since, he has scored 3,654 runs at an average of 58, with 14 centuries, becoming a key component of England’s “Bazball” strategy.
Root acknowledges the support he received from Stokes during his captaincy. “He threw everything into helping me out when I was England captain,” Root says. “Now it’s my opportunity to repay that favour.”
The Role of the Senior Player
Root sees his role as a senior player as crucial, both on and off the field. “Whether it’s in terms of performance or messaging within the team, that’s my role,” he explains. His innovative use of the ramp or scoop shot is one example of his strategic thinking, aimed at disrupting bowlers’ rhythms.
“If we come away from this and I haven’t got a hundred, and we win the series, that would be probably the best achievement of my whole career.” – Joe Root
Challenges and Opportunities
The series presents both challenges and opportunities for England. With Pat Cummins absent from the first Test and Josh Hazlewood facing fitness concerns, Root and his teammates have a chance to capitalize on any weaknesses in the Australian bowling attack.
Stokes, confident in Root’s abilities, predicts a successful tour. Root, in turn, praises Stokes’ leadership, highlighting his ability to create an environment where players can express themselves and excel.
Looking Forward
Root’s enthusiasm for the series is undiminished, despite his cold. He draws inspiration from past players like Bob Simpson, who waited 30 Tests for his first century. “It’s very hard for anyone to play well with fear of failure in their mind,” Root reflects. “Our focus is on how we can positively move the game in our favour.”
As the Ashes series looms, Root’s determination and experience could prove pivotal in England’s quest for victory. The series promises to be a test of skill, strategy, and resilience, with Root at the heart of England’s efforts.
