Ashes 2023: I’m always ready for a chance to take Test wickets, says Joe Root ahead of Lord’s Test

England’s veteran Joe Root has said he is always ready for a chance to take Test wickets in the ongoing Ashes against Australia. Root is more than a handy off-spinner for Ben Stokes and he has time and again provided crucial breakthroughs for England. The 32-year-old has scalped 55 wickets in his 131 Test career and he is known to break partnerships.

The off-spinner also provided the crucial breakthrough of Alex Carey in the second innings of the opening Ashes Test with a caught-and-bowled dismissal. In fact, England’s all-rounder Moeen Ali suffered a finger injury and thus Root bowled a total of 22 overs in the opening Test.

“It’s great when you get a chance to contribute, you want to be involved and step up in the big moments. I’m always ready for a chance to take Test wickets,” said Root as quoted by BBC Sport.

Meanwhile, Root was magnificent with the bat as he scored an unbeaten knock of 118 in the first innings. In fact, Root could have added a few more runs but England skipper Ben Stokes decided to declare at 393-8 on the opening day.

Moreover, Root played a crucial knock of 46 runs in the second innings. However, his efforts went in vain as England lost the opener by two wickets after Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon added 55 runs for the ninth wicket.

On the other hand, England adopted an aggressive approach and Root revealed they will continue to back themselves to play in a similar fashion.

“We just have to go and do it again at Lord’s and for three more Tests after that. Everyone should strap in and expect the same from us. That’s what we’re about as a team. We are going to challenge and compete. We’re in for a hell of a Test series here,” Root added.

There is no doubt that Joe Root is going to hold the key for England in the middle order. The talisman will look to continue the good show in the second Test match for the hosts. The second Ashes Test will be played at Lord’s, from June 28 onwards.