Overview

• Root says the tour "is not about me" and stresses that his runs only matter if they contribute to England winning in Australia.
• The 34-year-old owns 39 Test hundreds but none in Australia across 27 innings, with a highest score of 89.
• Former players have amplified the topic, including Matthew Hayden's pledge to "walk nude" at the MCG if Root does not reach three figures, which Root waves off as noise.
• Root voices confidence in Ben Stokes' readiness after his shoulder issue and points to a refreshed plan featuring multiple high-pace bowlers.
• Australian media reports suggest Pat Cummins is likely to miss the Perth opener on November 21, introducing uncertainty for the hosts.