Joe Root, battling what he describes as a “stinking cold,” is brimming with anticipation as he prepares for the upcoming Ashes series. Speaking via Zoom, a platform he became all too familiar with during his captaincy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Root reflects on past challenges and the future that awaits.
The Joe Root of the 2021-22 Ashes tour appeared weary and frustrated, grappling with England’s exhaustive Test schedule and the fresh condition of their Australian counterparts. His struggles were compounded by recurring errors, including his tendency to run deliveries through gully and third-man regions on Australia’s bouncy pitches. Despite his historic achievements, Root’s performance in Australia has often been scrutinized, with former Australian coach Darren Lehmann once comparing him unfavorably to contemporaries like Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, and Kane Williamson.
Reflecting on Past Challenges
Root acknowledges the criticisms but remains focused on his primary role: scoring runs. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion,” Root says. “My job is to score runs, and I’ve tried to make sure that’s always my main focus, and I’ve got five brilliant opportunities to do that in this series.”
As Root revisits his previous Ashes tours in Australia, he recalls the difficulties faced. The 2013-14 tour ended in a 5-0 defeat, while the 2017-18 tour was marred by off-field controversies. The 2021-22 series, conducted under the shadow of COVID-19, was particularly taxing. “We didn’t have a coaching staff,” Root remembers, highlighting the challenges of playing in such restrictive conditions.
New Opportunities Under Stokes’ Leadership
Now, with the captaincy passed to Ben Stokes, Root feels liberated. “This time around, I’ve got all that experience to lean on,” he notes. Without the burden of captaincy, Root is determined to enjoy the tour and contribute as a senior player in Stokes’ team.
Root’s relationship with Stokes is one of mutual respect and support. “He threw everything into helping me out when I was England captain,” Root says. Now, it’s Root’s turn to repay that favor, both through his on-field performance and his role in fostering a positive team environment.
Innovative Strategies and Team Dynamics
Root’s approach to batting has evolved, incorporating innovative shots like the ramp or scoop to disrupt bowlers’ rhythms. “If it can create a little bit of chaos and take a bowler off their length, that can benefit you and the guy at the other end,” Root explains.
With Pat Cummins absent from the first Test in Perth and Josh Hazlewood facing fitness concerns, England sees a chance to capitalize. Root’s confidence is bolstered by Stokes’ leadership, which has created an environment where players can express themselves freely.
“A lot of the time if the game wasn’t moving in the direction you wanted, if you needed someone to make something happen, Ben would generally be the person I’d turn to,” Root says.
The Bigger Picture: Team Success Over Personal Glory
Root’s ambition for the Ashes is clear: team success over personal milestones. “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,” he declares.
This mindset reflects the broader philosophy instilled by Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, emphasizing positive play and team cohesion. “It’s very hard for anyone to play well with fear of failure in their mind,” Root notes, underscoring the importance of maintaining a positive outlook.
As the Ashes series approaches, Root’s focus remains unwavering. He is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
