Ashes 2019 | Would be different if Aussies were quieter, but recent comments suggest otherwise, says Joe Root

After a nasty Ashes last time around, when the decibel levels from the on-field players threatened to match that of the fans in the stands, it seemed like the Aussies couldn’t advertise their mouth, win-at-all-cost combination any better. But then, the ‘Sandpaper-gate’ scandal followed, and three big guns in the Aussie squad were banished. It seemed like the Australians backed off into a fresh direction post the events in Newlands. However, their internal trial match at Southampton hinted that it wouldn’t be the case when the Ashes kicks off. The England captain isn’t sure how it will turn out. 

"We've got a way of playing our cricket and we don't want to get involved in anything that's unnecessary, or - we just want to play good cricket. We want it to be entertaining; we want the crowds to enjoy themselves at every ground. But we want it to be done in the right way. It's been a great summer for us so far, and it's an opportunity now, five more Test matches to build on that and hopefully make it a very special year to remember," Root said.

"I saw a few comments, yeah. You expect those ahead of a big series. So, anyway, it's always tasty when people have a bit to say. I think with selection, he is there to go and play in his own manner at the top of the order. He's a very talented player, he can take a game away from a number of sides. People have opinions he might be better suited to No. 4. I think it's really exciting having him at the top of the order and he deserves the opportunity to go out there first up and have a good crack at the top, and hopefully apply some pressure back onto Australia," Root added.

Although the English players are known for a much lighter version of sledging – ‘banter’ as they call it – the crowd may not be so welcoming of the returning Australians Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft. Smith had already got a fair bit of hostility during the World Cup. Root, while sympathising with the three, said he cannot do anything to control the crowd.