Overview

• Speaking on The Overlap/Stick to Cricket podcast, Root said Brook "makes my life so much easier" and likened batting with him to being at the crease with Kevin Pietersen.
• Root described opponents shifting to rate control when Brook is in, which reduces wicket-taking intent and benefits the rest of England’s batting group.
• England tour Australia this winter for the Ashes with bookmakers rating them underdogs despite recent progress.
• Root played down the odds and stressed preparation, urging focus on conditions, opposition analysis and the unique challenges of playing in Australia.
• England drew 2-2 with India this summer, with Brook named England’s player of the series after a 195-run stand with Root, and Root and Brook currently ranked No.1 and No.2 in Tests.