Synopsis
New Delhi, Feb 21 (NationPress) Ahead of England's 2025 Champions Trophy opener against Australia, Joe Root highlights the unique challenges of ODIs and expresses his ongoing commitment to the format despite recent setbacks.Key Takeaways
- Joe Root emphasizes the uniqueness of each ODI innings.
- England has faced four consecutive ODI series defeats.
- Root remains committed to ODI cricket and denies retirement claims.
- He calls for more opportunities in the 50-over format for players.
- Root believes in leveraging team experience for success.
New Delhi, Feb 21 (NationPress) As England gears up for their 2025 Champions Trophy journey against Australia, star batsman Joe Root emphasized that batting in ODIs presents unique challenges, as he struggles to recall any two innings in his career that were precisely alike.
Entering the eight-team tournament, England faces a backdrop of four consecutive ODI series defeats, including a recent 3-0 loss in India. Root remarked, "I can't think of any two innings that I have played that have been exactly the same."
"The skill of batting lies in evaluating the conditions in front of you, managing the situation at hand, and consistently making sound decisions under pressure," Root stated, as reported by BBC Sport on Friday.
Despite England's declining ODI results following their early exit in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Root expressed a strong desire for further success in the 50-over format. "I have never retired. I have never claimed I don't want to play this format. I believe there is no need for that. No player is entitled to selection by divine right," he added.
"You must perform, consistently fulfill your role, contribute positively to the team, and ensure you enhance the team instead of hindering it. I don't look too far ahead and think about how long I want to play. You must earn your place and continually contribute," he continued.
Root concluded by advocating for England’s players to be granted more frequent chances in the 50-over format to reverse their fortunes. "It will take something innovative to achieve that. While regular opportunities are limited now, it doesn’t mean we can’t replicate the success of that past team," he noted.
"We face different challenges to overcome. Can we expedite this process through insightful discussions and sharing our experiences, so that when we reach critical moments in significant matches, we can secure victory? I believe we have the right players and ample talent to accomplish this," he affirmed.
