ENG vs IND 2021: I am ready to perform as a player and captain in the best possible way – Joe Root

England Test captain Joe Root is ready to perform both as a captain and as well as a player in the best possible way. The next six months are going to define Root’s career as England’s captain as his team will face India in the five-match Test series and they will take on Australia in the Ashes later in the year.

As Root will not have the services of his deputy Ben Stokes for the upcoming Test series against India, the England captain will have his work cut out both as a captain as well as a leader. However, Root wants to take one game at a time and he is not thinking too far ahead of himself.

There is no doubt that Root is going to hold the key for England and it is imperative for the hosts that their skipper fires at all cylinders. Root has all the experience under his belt and he will aim to be at his best.

Root said, “It could do, but ultimately tomorrow could define things, day after tomorrow could define anything. It’s just really important that we are trying to get the side as prepared as possible, and I am ready to perform as a player and as a captain in the best possible way in this very next game.”

“I can’t look after that right now because I’m starting to think about what’s to come in six months’ time. It can very easily distract you from the present challenge, which is starting well in the upcoming series. I am sure people will make those opinions and decisions on me as a captain and my career. As a player, all you can do is try and look after right now and perform there. So that’s what I will continue to do, just give my best for England cricket and to this team and try to win as many matches as possible,” said Joe Root.

The England skipper also didn’t reveal any hint regarding the team’s playing XI for the first Test match. England will definitely miss players like Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Chris Woakes. The hosts’ batting unit is inexperienced and it could be an issue for them.

“I think we have got a lot of things to consider and balance the side as Ben Stokes is unavailable. We will probably do a lot of thinking and then pick the right combination for these conditions at the ground (Trent Bridge). It’s a little bit too far to give too much away at this stage. We have got a talented squad of players. We could go different ways. And yeah very excited about the challenge India presents. Hopefully, we can start well,” said Joe Root

The first Test between India and England will take place at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on August 4.