Joe Root, the world’s No. 1 Test batter and arguably England’s greatest modern-day cricketer, has been a run machine since his debut against India in Nagpur back in December 2012. In 370 international matches, the Yorkshire star has piled up 21,562 runs, including 13,543 in Tests, making him the second-highest run scorer in the five-day game.
Despite 39 Test centuries – the fourth most in history – Root’s biggest shortcoming remains his record in Australia. In 14 Ashes Tests down under, he has managed just 892 runs at an average of 35.68, with no centuries to his name. He has nine fifties in those matches but has never been able to cross three figures on Australian soil.
Panesar’s Warning: “Australia Could Define Root’s Career”
As Root prepares to travel with England for the 2025-26 Ashes, former teammate and ex-spinner Monty Panesar has issued a stark warning. Speaking to India Today, Panesar said the series could decide Root’s Test future.
“It really depends how next year goes for him, how the Ashes go. We saw with Virat Kohli in Australia — he struggled outside that fourth and fifth stump line, and eventually a decision was made about his retirement. If Root doesn’t have a good Ashes, and it goes badly, people may start asking if he’s past his best,” Panesar remarked.
He added that a disastrous Ashes could even trigger wider consequences for England:
“Suddenly all it takes is one bad series, and the coach or captain could also come under pressure. In Australia, no matter how good you are, you’ve got to perform.”
Strong Bowling Attack Awaits
Panesar believes that Root’s biggest challenge will be facing one of the strongest Australian pace attacks in recent memory.
“It’s going to be very difficult because of the strength of their attack. Maybe at Adelaide or Melbourne he’ll get conditions that aren’t so bouncy, and that could be his best chance. But on quicker, bouncier tracks, it could be tough for him,” he explained.
Make-or-Break Tour for Root
As England’s talisman, Root’s performances in Australia will be under intense scrutiny. A maiden hundred down under could finally silence his critics, but another barren Ashes could raise questions about the future of one of England’s greatest-ever batters.
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