HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Root wants Ashes venue choice after Headingley snub

BBC Sport •
×

Joe Root said it would be "nice to have a choice" over Ashes venues after England's crushing victory over Pakistan at Headingley, a ground where they've won seven straight Tests. Despite this strong record, Headingley won't host a men's Ashes Test until 2029, missing out on next summer's series. Root acknowledged that Australia is unlikely to give up home advantage at their most successful venues during the Ashes. He noted the different systems between countries and that venue selection is "someone else's job," but expressed his personal desire to play at Headingley more often. The England captain praised the pitch conditions and team success at the Yorkshire ground. For Root, the innings victory marked an ideal start to his second spell as captain, extending England's winning streak at Headingley that began in 2018. The decision for Headingley and Old Trafford to miss the 2027 Ashes was announced in 2023, with Nottingham's Trent Bridge becoming the most northerly venue instead.

Root looks set to lead England into next year's Ashes after returning to the captaincy following Ben Stokes' retirement. The 35-year-old will work with new coach Stephen Fleming, who replaces Brendon McCullum. Marcus Trescothick is currently acting as interim coach for the Pakistan series, with Fleming expected to arrive in September. Root mentioned maintaining regular communication with both Fleming and Trescothick throughout the Headingley match.

Former England opener Trescothick, who served as assistant to McCullum, expressed his interest in continuing with the Test team under Fleming's leadership. He praised Fleming's capabilities as a former captain and coach, stating he would "love" to carry on working with the squad.