Root Responds to Warner’s Ashes Comments

Ahead of the Ashes 2025-26, commencing in November, England’s prominent batter Joe Root has downplayed remarks made by former Australian opening batsman David Warner.

Warner, who is presently participating in The Hundred in England, had recently cast doubt on Root’s performance record in Australia.

Warner noted, “Rooty is the main player, yet he hasn’t achieved a century in Australia. Josh Hazlewood often gets him out. He needs to adjust his technique.”

Responding to a British media source, the right-handed batter stated that he was unaffected by the statements.

He clarified, “That’s all there is to it. I can’t influence how people view the game or talk about it publicly. Is this new? You realize that there will be plots and efforts to generate excitement for a major event.”

He further stated, “It doesn’t really change anything. It is somewhat insignificant to me. What can I do about it? Simply ensure it is not a topic of discussion in six months or 100 days.”

The 34-year-old also noted that his primary goal is to help England get off to a strong start.

He stated, “When you go out there, you must attempt to influence the game and assist your team in getting off to a solid beginning.”

Despite holding the title of second-highest run-scorer in Test history, Root has not yet made a century in Australia, having amassed 892 runs at a 35.68 average. Since 2022, though, he has recorded 15 centuries at an average of 64.64.

The Ashes 2025-26 will commence in Perth on November 21. It will proceed with a day-night Test in Brisbane, followed by Adelaide, the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, and the New Year’s Test in Sydney to wrap up the series.