To get the chance to speak about Test cricket with Brain Lara and Kumar Sangakkara is invaluable: Joe Root

Speaking about his experience in playing in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League, star England batter Joe Root stated that it has been a lovely experience to spend a lot of time speaking about Test cricket with Kumar Sangakkara and Brian Lara. Ahead of The Ashes 2023, Root believes that their inputs can help him against Australia as England are desperate to win back the urn. 

The middle-order batter went on to add that he has worked on his white-ball skills, but speaking to the legends of the game and the current players have been invaluable. Notably, Root has played only two matches for Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing IPL 2023 but is yet to get an opportunity to bat. However, he was spotted bowling in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Eden Gardens on May 11.

“It’s been great, I’ve really enjoyed it. It has been a bit different, but I’ve had some really good and interesting conversations with coaches and ex-players out here about Test cricket. I spoke with Brian Lara about batting for a few hours, which was really insightful. At this stage of my career and where I am as a player, I feel like that is where I am going to learn the most by picking people’s brains and thinking about what I can add to my own game and taking it forward into the next few years.

“You come here and try to develop parts of your white ball game, and to be around T20 cricket has been amazing, but to get the chance to speak about Test cricket with Lara and Kumar Sangakkara and other current players is invaluable,” Root was quoted as saying by Mirror.

Meanwhile, the 32-year-old has confirmed that he will be available for selection for the one-off Test match against Ireland. He clarified that even if Rajasthan Royals qualify for the finals, he will be returning on time.