Joe Root's Form Peaks Ahead of 2025 Ashes Series

Root's Elevated Performance

Marcus Trescothick, the assistant coach for England, has praised Joe Root's recent batting performance, noting that the former captain seems to have mastered his game and taken his skills to a new level as the Ashes 2025 series against Australia approaches.

Root enters the series with a significant lead in the ICC Men's Test Batting Rankings. However, he has faced challenges in the past against Australia's formidable bowling attack, particularly in away matches.

At 34, Root has yet to experience an away Test victory against Australia and has not scored a century in Australia across 14 matches in the last three Ashes series, despite achieving 39 centuries throughout his illustrious career.

Trescothick highlighted Root's revival under the guidance of coach Brendon McCullum, expressing confidence that Root will end his century drought in the upcoming Ashes series, which kicks off in Perth on November 21 as part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

"His recent performances indicate that he is comfortable with his approach and style of play. His game has indeed progressed, which is reflected in his ranking. It would be surprising if he doesn't maintain this form during the series," Trescothick remarked.

England's Preparation and Selection Strategy

Prior to the first Test in Perth, England will participate in a single warm-up match against the England Lions, scheduled for three days starting Thursday.

Root will have ample opportunity to showcase his skills during this warm-up, with Trescothick confirming that all members of England's Ashes squad will play in one of the two teams over the three days at the scenic Lilac Hill venue.

Trescothick also indicated that performances in the warm-up match are unlikely to significantly impact England's selection for the first Test against Australia.

"Everyone has a chance to prove themselves. However, our team selection has been consistent, with minimal changes unless injuries occur. Major shifts in the lineup are unlikely before the Ashes series, even if someone performs exceptionally well in the warm-up. The team has been stable for a reason, ensuring we enter the series with confidence and cohesion," he explained.

Ashes 2025: Team Lineups and Schedule Australia's Squad (First Test Only)

Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

England's Squad

Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood

Series Schedule

First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21-25. Second Test: Gabba, December 4-8. Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17-21. Fourth Test: MCG, December 26-30. Fifth Test: SCG, January 4-8.