From India to the Ashes: Root relishes blockbuster summer
The 34-year-old batting star is preparing for a busy and high-profile six months in Test whites, starting with the India series on home soil before an eagerly awaited Ashes tour of Australia later this year.
As England gear up for a high-octane home Test series against India, former captain Joe Root has described this period as the "most fun" of his cricketing career.
The 34-year-old batting star is preparing for a busy and high-profile six months in Test whites, starting with the India series on home soil before an eagerly awaited Ashes tour of Australia later this year.
"You can only be excited. These are the kinds of series you dream of playing in. The opportunities ahead of us are immense," Root told former teammate Stuart Broad on Sky Sports.
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Since stepping down as England's Test captain in 2022, Root has been in magnificent form with the bat, amassing 3,117 runs at an average of 56.67 from 36 Tests — more than any other England batter during that time. He says this chapter has brought him immense satisfaction.
"This has become the most enjoyable time of my career. The way we're playing, the environment we're in — it's all been brilliant," he said. "The work Ben [Stokes] and Brendon [McCullum] have done has been outstanding, and the enjoyment we've all experienced is a reflection of that."
England's new ICC World Test Championship cycle gets underway on Friday at Headingley — Root's home ground — as they take on an Indian side led by new captain Shubman Gill. While anticipation for the Ashes is already mounting, Root is staying firmly focused on the immediate challenge.
"You know The Ashes are on the horizon... but there's a job to do against a world-class side," Root said. "India have everything — a formidable seam attack, skilful batters, and a top-class spin unit."
India are chasing their first Test series win in England since 2007. Their most recent tour in 2021–22 ended in a 2–2 draw, leaving a sense of unfinished business.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in on selection debates ahead of the Headingley Test, as India look to conquer English conditions under new leadership.
But Root believes England's strength at home will stand them in good stead.
"They're capable of competing anywhere in the world, but our record at home speaks for itself. It's set up to be a fantastic series. We'll go into it confident, but with huge respect for what India bring to the table."
