Joe Root gives a befitting reply to Ricky Ponting’s ‘little boy’ jibe

Former Australian skipper Rick Ponting induced a stir between Tests after England lost the Ashes with a crushing innings defeat in Perth last week. He depicted Joe Root as a “little boy” who needs to “step up big time” and has little respect from his own squad. However, the 26-year-old Lions skipper has come with a befitting reply. Root has dismissed Ponting’s suggestions that he has looked like a “little boy” leading England in this summer’s Ashes.

Root acknowledges the former Australia captain’s entitlement to his opinion but points out Ponting has no inside-track on the happenings within the touring squad. The Yorkshireman insists he will continue to lead England as he sees fit and in a manner true to himself.

Replying to Ponting’s comments, Root said, “He’s entitled to his opinion, but he doesn’t spend any time in our dressing-room or around the squad. I’m obviously going to disagree with that. I’m sure if you asked any of the guys in the camp, the coaches or support staff or players, they would back me up on that.”

Tom Curran to debut for England in Melbourne Test

In a recent development, young speedster Tom Curran is set to make his Test debut in England’s only change for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia in Melbourne starting on the Boxing Day.

The 22-year-old Surrey fast bowler replaces injured Craig Overton, who incurred a rib injury when the tourists relinquished the Ashes urn to the Australians in last week’s third Perth Test.

With only three Twenty20Is and a One-Day International experience under his belt, Curran was not initially chosen in England’s Ashes touring squad. But he got his chance when Steve Finn was forced to leave the tour early with knee cartilage problems.

Curran also has the support of skipper Root and will look to make the most of his opportunity in the Boxing Day Test.