Why Has Root Never Scored a Century in Australia?

Joe Root, England's most prolific Test batter, has yet to score a century in Australia, despite a commendable record of 892 runs across 14 Tests. This anomaly raises questions about his performance and strategies in the unique Australian conditions, especially as he prepares for the upcoming Ashes series. Understanding why Australia has been a challenging terrain for Root could shed light on his quest for that elusive century.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the 2023–24 Ashes series approaches, Joe Root's quest for a century in Australia remains a focal point of discussion among cricket fans and analysts alike. His past performances indicate a need for adaptation to the Australian pitches, known for their pace and bounce. As Root prepares to face a formidable Australian bowling lineup, including the likes of Pat Cummins and Scott Boland, the spotlight is on whether he can break his century drought this time around.

Key takeaways

Root has played 14 Tests in Australia, scoring 892 runs but no centuries.
His average of 35.68 in Australia is the lowest of any nation he has played against more than twice.
Root has made nine fifties in Australia, ranking third for England in the 21st century.
His struggles are primarily against pace, averaging just 26.9 against good-length deliveries.
Root's performance may improve with his recent experience and changes in batting approach.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline highlights key moments in Joe Root's career in Australia leading up to the current Ashes series:

2013-14: Root's first Test series in Australia, where he faced the formidable Mitchell Johnson.
2017-18: Root's second Ashes series, marked by challenges against Australian pace bowlers.
2019: Another series in which Root struggled, particularly in adapting to the Australian bowling strategies.
2021-22: Root performed without a century, with significant dismissals attributed to targeted bowling strategies by Australia.
2023: As Root enters the upcoming Ashes series, discussions around his batting approach and strategies intensify.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the Ashes series approaches, Root has expressed confidence in his game, citing improved understanding and adaptability to Australian conditions. His recent form, averaging 63.44 in 2025, indicates he may be ready to confront his historical challenges.

What was already established

Historically, Root has struggled against pace bowling in Australia, particularly on good-length deliveries. His average against spinners remains strong, suggesting a clear disparity in his performance against different types of bowling.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For cricket fans in the UK, Root's performance can influence engagement with the sport, particularly around the Ashes series. A strong showing could heighten interest in cricket, reflecting the broader cultural significance of the series.

Businesses and jobs

The Ashes series typically boosts local economies, from merchandise sales to hospitality services. Root's performance may directly impact viewership, and thus, associated economic benefits for businesses linked to cricket.

Policy and regulation

Cricket in the UK is governed by various bodies, including the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). How players like Root perform can influence future policies regarding player well-being and development, particularly in high-pressure series like the Ashes.

Numbers that matter

14: Tests played by Root in Australia.
892: Total runs scored by Root in those Tests.
9: Half-centuries made by Root in Australia.
35.68: Root's batting average in Australia, the lowest against any nation he has faced more than twice.
63: Root's average against short balls in Australia, indicating his strength in playing higher bouncers.

Definitions and jargon buster

LBW: Leg Before Wicket, a way a batsman can be dismissed in cricket.
Good length: A delivery that pitches at a length where the batsman must decide whether to play forward or back.
CricViz: A cricket analytics company that provides detailed insight and statistics on player performances.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Ashes series begins, Root's immediate focus should be on adapting his technique to counter the pace bowlers effectively while maintaining his attacking style of play.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Root should continue refining his technique and approach, particularly against good-length deliveries, to enhance his performance in future series, including potential tours to other countries with similar conditions.

Signals to watch

Root's early performances against Australian pace bowlers in the Ashes.
Changes in his batting strategy, especially against fuller deliveries.
Comparison of his averages across different conditions and formats.

Practical guidance

Do

Focus on adapting batting technique to Australian pitches.
Work on shot selection against pace bowling, particularly in early overs.
Maintain confidence and mental resilience during tough spells.

Don’t

Overthink past failures; focus on current form and mindset.
Neglect physical conditioning, which can impact performance.
Ignore feedback from past performances against Australian bowlers.

Checklist

Review recent performances against pace bowlers.
Practice specific shots that are effective on bouncy pitches.
Monitor changes in Australian bowling strategies leading into the series.
Engage with sports psychologists to enhance mental focus.
Stay updated on pitch conditions in Australia.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Root's lack of a century in Australia raises questions about his adaptability to different conditions. While his historical struggles are concerning, cricket is unpredictable, and changes in his approach or the Australian bowling strategy could lead to different outcomes. Factors such as pitch conditions, team dynamics, and personal form will also play critical roles.

Bottom line

Joe Root's quest for a Test century in Australia remains a high-profile narrative as he heads into the upcoming Ashes series. While historical challenges against pace bowlers are evident, improvements in his approach and recent form suggest that he has the potential to conquer this final frontier. As the series unfolds, all eyes will be on Root to see if he can finally secure that elusive century on Australian soil.

FAQs

Why hasn't Joe Root scored a century in Australia?

Joe Root has struggled primarily against pace bowling in Australia, particularly on good-length deliveries. His batting average of 35.68 in Australia is significantly lower compared to his performance in other countries.

What changes can Root make to improve his performance in Australia?

Root should focus on adapting his technique to handle the bounce of Australian pitches better, especially against pace bowlers, while maintaining his aggressive batting style.

What impact could Root's performance have on the Ashes series?

Root's success in the Ashes could influence team morale and overall performance, potentially impacting England's chances of reclaiming the series against Australia.