Joe Root has made a notable return to one-day internationals, playing his first series since the 2023 World Cup in India earlier this month. Despite having been a central figure in England's ODI setup between the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, Root's appearances have dwindled, with only 31 matches played since then. This reduction in international ODIs, alongside the diminished standing of England’s domestic competition, poses a challenge as England seeks to reclaim its dominance on the world stage.
Root managed to reach double figures in all three innings during the recent India series, with his top score being 69. Despite these efforts, he acknowledged that England's 50-over batting lineup has struggled to find rhythm. Root's last century in an ODI came against West Indies during the group stage of the 2019 World Cup, marking a notable gap in his performance. As one of only five surviving members from England's World Cup-winning squad, Root's experience remains crucial as the team begins its journey towards the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
England faces a formidable challenge as it prepares to kick off its Champions Trophy campaign against Australia this Saturday. The team is in a precarious position after having lost four consecutive 50-over series. The Champions Trophy remains the elusive piece of silverware missing from England's collection. Despite these setbacks, Root, who has contributed more runs to England across all formats than any other player, remains optimistic about the team's potential comeback.
"Anyone that says at any stage of their career 'I have got no regrets', 'I wouldn't change anything', I think they are lying," – Joe Root
Root has previously expressed a desire for players to receive more consistent opportunities in 2023 and maintains hope that England can regain its former glory. His performances have seen a decline since the 2019 World Cup, with an average of 29.92 over the past five and a half years. Nevertheless, Root remains committed to being part of the squad for the 2027 World Cup, which is expected to conclude shortly before his 37th birthday.
"You would change certain things, but in terms of how I approach this tournament, no, not really. You know what's happened has happened." – Joe Root
Reflecting on the current state of the team, Root highlighted the unseen efforts and operations within the squad, emphasizing the importance of adapting to different challenges.
"They don't see what we do and how we operate." – Joe Root
"I can't think of any two innings that I have played that have been exactly the same," – Joe Root
Root believes that success will require a departure from past methods, stressing the necessity for innovation and adaptation.
"It's just going to take something different," – Joe Root
He acknowledges the lack of regular playing opportunities as a hurdle but maintains that it should not hinder the team’s success.
"There isn't that opportunity to do that [play as regularly] nowadays but it doesn't mean we can't be as successful as that team." – Joe Root
Confidence in the team's abilities is key for Root, who believes in the talent within the squad to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
"I think we've got the right players that are able to do that and we've certainly got the talent." – Joe Root
Root views batting as an art of assessing conditions, managing situations, and consistently making sound decisions under pressure—a philosophy he aims to instill in his teammates.
"I think the art of batting is assessing the conditions in front of you, managing the situation that you're presented with and consistently making good decisions under pressure." – Joe Root
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