In order to make a statement against Australia, Joe Root must bat at number 3, says Graham Gooch

Former English batsman Graham Gooch believes that the ideal spot for captain Joe Root to bat is at the number 3 position instead of number 4, in order to make a statement against the Australians in the Ashes series. Gooch backed Root to bat at number 3 slot despite him averaging better at two down.

From the last couple of series, England’s top order has been questionable as the team lost a couple of wickets with the new ball without adding much to the total.

“I do think he should bat at No 3 and the reason I say that is because we need to make a statement. We cannot have a weak link, we cannot be 25-2 every time. In this line-up, he has to bat at No 3,” commented Graham Gooch according to Sky Sports.

Gooch then went on to state that England has been struggling to find a proper number in the batting order and have shuffled constantly between Westley, Ballance and Vince. Therefore, the Three Lions need rigidity at the crucial position in form of Joe Root.

“If we had a regular No 3 who was successful and had a track record behind him, then [Root] can bat at No 4, but I don’t see any of the players who are hopefully going to make a name for themselves [James Vince, Dawid Malan and Gary Ballance] batting there. It’s going to be tough – Australia always targets the captain, look to undermine him if they can,” added Gooch.

Gooch on Stokes incident

In the detailed interview, Gooch also shared his insights on the Ben Stokes matter, claiming that the ‘Stokes Situation’ hasn’t helped England’s cause.

“I don’t think what’s happened over the last few weeks has helped England’s cause at all. The disruption this could cause is going to be difficult to cope with. Stokes is an influential player. He is our third best player, in my opinion – he has a fantastic technique and has made so many improvements with his batting. He would be a great loss,” concluded the 64-year-old.