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Rarely for an England player gets labeled as whinging in Australia, yet when the former captain was questioned about the necessity for pink-ball cricket in a series like the Ashes, he gave an honest answer.

“From my perspective, it's not necessary,” Root stated prior to England's net session in Brisbane. “It’s obviously very successful and popular here in Australia, and the hosts boast a strong record in these matches. You can understand why one match is scheduled.

“Ultimately, you know well in advance it will happen. It’s part of being ready for such contests. In a contest of this magnitude, does it need it? Probably not … yet it doesn't imply it has no place. I don’t mind it. In my opinion it’s as good as traditional Test cricket. But it's on the calendar. We’ve got to play it, and must ensure we outperform our opponents at it.”

Root's Performance in Day-Night Tests Takes a Dip

Like his counterpart, Steve Smith, Root’s typically strong stats see a drop with the pink ball. The England star has played each of the seven of England’s pink-ball matches to date, and although a century in his first outing versus the Windies in 2017, his career average above 50 drops to just over 38 in these games.

Conversely, bowler Mitchell Starc averages 28.97 with a strike-rate around 50 in general, but those numbers improve to 17 and 33 respectively with the pink ball. During his most recent floodlit game, against West Indies, he took six for nine as West Indies were dismissed for a meager 27—his best performance that he bettered with seven wickets for 58 in the next Test.

Key Battle Root vs Starc May Determine Outcome

The matchup between Root and Starc is shaping up to be one of the deciding factors in the Ashes. Although Cummins and Hazlewood have traditionally caused him issues, in their absence last week, it was Starc who dismissed him for scores of a duck and eight.

Root has reflected the initial wicket was just a good ball—the type that might not carry to slip in England. His next dismissal, when he chopped on, during England’s the team's slump, was an error by him. “I know I’m a good player,” he stated. “I know I’m going to score runs again.”

The Touring Side's Challenges and Preparations

Starc now uses the wobble-seam as his preferred weapon these days—he admitted he wished he'd heeded to Hazlewood and Cummins suggestions earlier—and in muggy conditions, swing could be available. England, down one match, have more to overcome this week, and contributions by their premier batter would help them recover from their own mistakes.

It might not need a hundred if another quick-fire match unfolds, but Root’s lack of a ton on Australian soil remains a talking point. “I didn’t have long enough to think about it,” was his humble reply on being questioned whether that record bothered him during the first Test.

Squad Decisions and Chance for History

The England squad trained intensely on Sunday, to the sound of hip-hop setting the tone on a hot afternoon. Monday and Wednesday are crucial for England’s preparations, held under lights.

Wood being unavailable with a sore knee has created an opening in the team, and Will Jacks practicing among the batsmen suggests he might be in contention. His off-spin are decent, and extra runs down the order could balance any bowling leaks.

That said, Josh Tongue has been with the Lions in Canberra and remains an option if England opt for pace-heavy bowling, while off-spinner Shoaib Bashir was in the squad previously. Much to think about, then, at a venue where the visitors have not won a match in over 40 years.

“It is a chance to make history,” Root said regarding this. “It would be even more satisfying if we succeed here.”