England captain Joe Root has said that the upcoming Ashes 2021-22 against Australia down under will be the toughest test of his captaincy and may even be a defining moment for his leadership.
The first of the five Tests will begin in Gabba, Brisbane from December 8th and both teams are coming into battle with off-field controversies of their own. Joe Root captained England in the 2017-18 Ashes series in Australia, which his side lost 4-0.
"Absolutely it is (on the line), you look at how hard it has been for English captains and English teams over the years. It's been something that doesn't happen very often. Of course, it will define my captaincy, I'm not naive enough to think that it won't. But what a great opportunity. I can't wait for the series to get going,” Sydney Morning Herald quoted Root as saying.
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Further talking about the series, the England captain said: "You look at some of the players, some of the individuals, some of the performances guys have put in... the senior guys have done it time and time again.
The junior guys have shown glimpses of what they can do and their potential. What better stage to really grab a series and make an announcement on the international stage. I'm an Ashes player and I want to live in the history of this great rivalry. That carrot is there for everyone.”
While Australia unveiled their playing XI for the first Test in Brisbane, England have kept their cards hidden.
This will be the first Ashes series or Test series for Pat Cummins as Australia Test captain after replacing Tim Paine, who resigned due to his involvement in the sexting scandal.
(ANI inputs)
