England batter Joe Root suggested the Ashes does not need a pink-ball Test, as England gear up for an important day-nighter in Brisbane.
England in the Ashes series opener in Perth, and will aim to respond strongly to that eight-wicket defeat inside two days. Root was dismissed for zero in the first innings before falling for eight in the next.
They have their work cut out at the Gabba, a ground they have not won at since 1986, and in a Test format in which they have only won two of seven, including three defeats in Australia.
Their hosts on Thursday have won 13 of 14, with only a surprise defeat to the West Indies last year – also at the Gabba – blotting their copybook.
Asked on Sunday whether an Ashes needed a pink-ball Test, Root said on Sunday: “I personally don’t think so.
“It’s very successful and very popular here. Australia has got a good record here. So you can see why we’re playing one of those games.
“Ultimately, two years out it’s going to be there. It’s part and parcel of making sure you’re ready for it.
“A series like this, does it need it? I don’t think so. But it doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be here either.”
Former England captain Root has now gone 29 innings without a century against Australia in test matches Down Under, with England’s latest defeat sparking more criticism of his form, but the 34-year-old had no doubt about his ability to score again.
“It’s pretty disappointing in terms of the numbers,” Root said, referring to the previous Test.
“I think it’s having a bit of realism, understanding, yes there are things that I might have done differently if I get an opportunity again, but also it’s not the end of the world.”
Root opted against taking part in an England Lions fixture against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra this week, .
“I’m making sure I’m clear on how I want to construct an innings against the pink ball in these conditions, against this attack,” he added.
“That’s what this week’s about … just readying yourself as best as possible, having good conversations around things on how we can work together and build those big partnerships that are going to set up games for us.”
Media reports said on Saturday that , a major blow for England given the importance of pace in pink-ball Tests. Root said the fast bowler would do everything to be fit again.
“We’ll see how things unfold over the next little while … every opportunity he gets to play for England, he puts his heart and soul into it to get well as fast as he can,” he said.