Joe Root views India ODIs as prep for Champions Trophy
What's the story
Star England batter Joe Root believes the impending three-match ODI series against India will be the perfect preparation for their 2025 ICC Champions Trophy campaign.
The tournament will start on February 19 in Pakistan.
Root, an experienced player with loads of experience under his belt, considers this series as an important phase for team-building and fine-tuning strategies ahead of the prestigious event.
Team cohesion
Root emphasizes importance of team unity ahead of tournament
Root emphasized on the importance of the upcoming series in bringing the team together and finding the right balance ahead of the Champions Trophy.
He said, "When you commit to doing something, you want to see it through and be there for the whole tournament."
He added playing for England is always a high point in cricket, and these matches will be instrumental in getting the side into a "good place before we head into that tournament."
Recovery phase
England aim to bounce back after T20I series loss
The upcoming series comes at a pivotal time for England. They recently lost the T20I series 4-1 to hosts India.
Under the leadership of Jos Buttler and guidance of head coach Brendon McCullum, the team is keen to excel in the 50-over format.
Root, who last played an ODI for England during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, lends valuable experience to this effort.
Stellar performance
Root's impressive ODI record
Root has an impressive ODI record, having scored more than 6,500 runs in 171 matches at an average of 47.60. His contributions include 16 centuries and 39 half-centuries.
As England gear up for the Champions Trophy, they are eager to test their skills against India in these three ODIs.
The idea is to enter the tournament with a perfect blend of form and confidence.