Monty Panesar Warns Joe Root Career Risks Ashes Australia

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has warned that Joe Root's Test career could face a critical turning point if he fails to perform in the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. Despite Root's status as the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket, he has yet to score a century on Australian soil, averaging 35.68 across 27 innings there. Panesar likened Root's potential Ashes struggles to those of Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket after a difficult Australian tour, suggesting that a poor series could lead to questions about Root's form and future, and even impact England's leadership. Panesar emphasized the difficulty of scoring centuries in Australia due to the strong and pace-heavy Australian bowling attack and the bounce-friendly pitches, although he noted venues like Adelaide and Melbourne might offer slightly more favorable conditions. Root is currently chasing Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most Test runs, but a strong Ashes performance remains a significant challenge. Overall, Panesar highlighted that success in Australia is crucial for Root's longevity and legacy in Test cricket.