Rooted In England's Future

For a man who looks 15 years old Joe Root is showing a lot of maturity. Entering the England side in arguably the toughest of conditions; a test match in India.

What has followed has caused much excitement in and around the England cricket side with Alastair Cook the most recent to praise the Yorkshire lad.

 "He keeps his feet on the ground, works very hard and has the right temperament for international cricket" A statement which could equally have been about the England captain himself.

Comparisons are already been made with the most obvious being that of Michael Vaughan. Both are from Sheffield, both are technically great batsmen, both bowl a bit of off spin!

From a batting perspective I see nothing but great things for Root, who is already averaging 93.00 in tests and 74.50 in ODIs. Further to this Root is the first batsman in history to score over 30 or more in his first 6 ODI games.

I have some insight into Root's early career as he played extensively with my brother going through the Yorkshire age groups and into the academy. My brother mentioned an innings of 235*, in one day, chance less, and told me that he had a great future ahead - at this moment he doesn't seem far wrong. I also had the chance to play against Root for his club side, Sheffield Collegiate, and I imagine I felt like the NZ players 'who is this kid smashing me to all parts?!'.

Is it too early to predict Root will be one of England's all time greats? Probably. Is it too early to say he'll be at the center of England's plans and teams for many years to come? I think not.
JL