The England captain has “sacrificed” his chance to play in the IPL mega auction in order to “throw” all his energy into reviving the fortunes of the under-fire Test side.
Root is considered to be one of the best players in modern cricket, but he has yet to play in the Indian Premier League after being unsold in the 2018 auction.
Root said last week he was considering entering the mega auction but added he would only play if the tournament did not interfere with his Test career.
Despite this, there is still a long wait for the 31-year-old, as he decided to focus on the English Test team, which just lost the 0-4 Ashes series.
After England’s 146-run loss to Australia in the fifth Test on January 16, Root said, “There is much to be done for this team, which deserves all my energy.”
“I will sacrifice as much as I can because I care so much about Test cricket in our country and trying to get us where we want to be,” added the star batsman, who confirmed he has turned down the chance to enter the auction.
Root has expressed his desire to remain England’s red ball captain despite the team’s poor performance in Test cricket this past year.
“After getting beaten so heavily on this tour, it’s very difficult to convince people that I’m the right man.”
“However, one thing I can guarantee is I will give my all to this team as long as I am given the chance to lead it – for everyone supporting us, for the guys around me, for the players – to give us an environment that allows us to thrive.” Root said.
Starting this year, the IPL will have 10 teams, and the mega-auction ahead of the next season will be held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.
