Former England captain Joe Root, Test cricket’s second-highest run-scorer after Sachin Tendulkar, has sparked debate by questioning the inclusion of a pink-ball Test in the prestigious Ashes series.
Speaking ahead of the second Test against Australia in Brisbane, Root expressed confidence in his ability to score big but suggested the day-night format is an unnecessary addition to the historic rivalry.
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“I personally don’t think so,” Root told reporters when asked if the Ashes needed the second Test to be a day-night match. “It does add to things. It’s obviously very successful and popular here and obviously Australia have got a very good record as well. A series like this, does it need it? I don’t think so, but it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be here either.”
The veteran batter is no stranger to the format, having played in all seven of England’s previous day-night Tests, where they hold a record of two wins and five losses.
Despite the format’s popularity—with the first three days of the Gabba clash already sold out—Root’s apprehension is understandable given the daunting record of their hosts. Australia are masters of pink-ball cricket, having won 13 of their 14 matches under lights.
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The pink-ball encounter, which starts on Thursday, also takes place at the Gabba, a venue where England last tasted victory in 1986. Australia, currently leading the five-match Ashes series 1-0, will be aiming to consolidate their advantage in a format they dominate.
Ashes 2025 Standings and Previous Match
- Current Standings: Australia leads the five-match Ashes series 1-0.
- First Test Result (Perth): Australia won by eight wickets inside two days.
- Key Numbers from First Test: England were bowled out for 172 and 164. Australia’s Travis Head scored a blazing 123 off 83 balls in the second innings to lead the chase of 205 runs.