Joe Root dismisses David Warne sledge, addresses poor return in Australia

News.com.au

2 days ago

England batting ace Joe Root has slapped down David Warner's 'surfboard' gibe as 'irrelevant' and just part of the Ashes theatre.
But the man with the second most runs in Test history, but no centuries in Australia in 14 Tests, conceded that this summer's series could have a 'hostile' atmosphere, adding an extra layer of challenge for the tourists seeking to get their hands on the urn.
As Australian Test quick Scott Boland said the more hostile recent on-field demeanour of England was 'fine' and wouldn't worry the home side, Root said barbs before and during the cricket were expected.
That includes Warner's recent comment that Root would need to 'take the surfboard off his front leg' if he wanted to make his Australia breakthrough.
'Nothing new, is it? You know there are going to be storylines and people wanting to hype up a big series. Doesn't really change anything,' Root told a media call.
'It's sort of irrelevant to me. What can I do about it? Just make sure it's not a talking point in six months or 100 days time.
'When you get out there you've got to try and impact the game and help your team get off to a good start. Business as usual as far as I'm concerned.
'I guess it's all part of the fun.'
England players, including Harry Brook, opted to move away from being too 'nice' in the recent series against India that was full of flashpoints.
The increased verbal activity could follow in the Ashes, along with the all-out attacking batting style, which Boland said wouldn't impact the Australian approach.
'They can do whatever they want when they're playing,' Boland said.
'I think we've been pretty consistent in the way we've played since I've been in and around the squad the last four years. Nothing much has changed in how we play our cricket.
'If they want to sledge, that's fine. I don't think it's going to worry our guys too much.'
Root heads to Australia with 13,543 Test runs to his name, behind only Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar on the all-time list.
But he knows he hasn't got the returns he would like in Australia, and this could be his final chance to make a century.
'The thing that stands out for me is I wanted it way too much the last couple of times,' said Root. 'It took me away from what was important.
'Clearly, the last few tours there have been loads of other things to contend with … a lot of distractions.
'This time I just want to go and enjoy the tour for what it is. It's a beautiful country, great place to go and play cricket. It's going to be hostile, everything you'd expect and want from an away Ashes series.
'That's something you've got to relish. Going there with 150-odd Test matches under my belt, I feel couldn't be more ready for it.'