Joe Root has strongly rejected suggestions that Pakistan have shown "no fight" in their Test series against England, calling the notion "disrespectful" to both teams. Speaking ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston starting Wednesday, with England leading 2-0 after dominant victories at Headingley and Lord's, Root emphasized that England's performances have prevented Pakistan from getting into matches. Pakistan made unprecedented changes last week, sending seven players home and calling up replacements, while also replacing head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and assistant Umar Gul with Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke overseeing the third Test.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has also launched an investigation into media reports concerning discipline and conduct. Root insisted the reality lies between one team playing well and another poorly, praising Pakistan's "very talented group of players" and warning England must be ready for a "completely different proposition" this week. Regarding opener Emilio Gay, who has scored two half-centuries in five Tests this summer but averages around 23, Root defended his contributions in difficult conditions and said discussions about his future should wait.

Root also backed Kevin Pietersen's return as a specialist mentor for England's white-ball teams ahead of next year's tournaments.