New Delhi— England’s veteran batter Joe Root is once again gearing up for a high-stakes Test series, as the five-match showdown between England and India kicks off from Friday, June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. Ahead of the series, Root issued a subtle warning to Team India, emphasizing England’s formidable record at home while also acknowledging India’s all-round strength.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the 33-year-old right-hander said,
“You can only be excited. These are the series you play the game for. The opportunities in front of us are huge. Everyone knows the Ashes is coming up later this year, and people will try to connect that to this India series. But before that, we have to work hard against a brilliant Indian side. They’ve progressed immensely in all formats.”
Root praised India’s pace and spin attack, along with their talented batting lineup, stating that India is one of the few teams capable of competing anywhere in the world.
“They’ve got all bases covered—pace, spin, and depth in batting. But at the same time, our record at home is outstanding, and that makes this series all the more intriguing. We’ll approach it with confidence but also with due respect for what they bring.”
Joe Root’s Formidable Record Against India
Joe Root has been a thorn in India’s side over the years. In 30 Tests, he has scored 2,846 runs at an average of 58.08, including 10 centuries and 11 fifties. His top score of 218 came in Chennai during England’s tour of India in 2021. Even more impressively, in home conditions against India, Root averages a staggering 74.95, having scored 1,574 runs in 15 Tests, with 7 centuries and 5 half-centuries.
Eyes on History
Currently fifth on the list of all-time leading Test run-scorers, Root has amassed 13,006 runs and is on the verge of breaking into the top two. He needs fewer than 400 runs to overtake the current No. 2, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting. Root is still some way behind Sachin Tendulkar, who leads the all-time list with 15,921 runs.
What’s Next?
While the immediate focus is on dominating the home series against India, Root also has his eyes set on the upcoming Ashes series in November-December, aiming to carry his form forward and challenge Australia’s top bowling attack. But for now, he remains firmly locked in on countering India’s challenge, with both teams looking evenly matched and the cricketing world eager for what promises to be a thrilling Test spectacle.
The series opener at Leeds could set the tone for what is likely to be one of the most competitive Test series of 2025.
