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Rarely that an English cricketer gets labeled as complaining in Australia, but when Joe Root was questioned regarding the need of day-night Tests in a series like the Ashes, he offered a straightforward answer.

“I personally don’t think so,” Root replied prior to England's net session in Brisbane. “It’s obviously very successful and popular in this country, and Australia have an impressive track record with the pink ball. You can understand why one match is scheduled.

“In the end, we are aware from two years out it will happen. It’s part of being ready for the series. For a series like this, is it essential? I don’t think so … yet it doesn't imply it shouldn’t be included. I don’t mind it. I don’t think it’s as good as the conventional format. But it’s in the schedule. We’ve got to play it, and must ensure to be better our opponents in these conditions.”

Joe Root's Performance Under Lights Declines

Similar to his opposite number, Steve Smith, Root's usually stellar numbers take a hit in day-night games. The England star has featured in each of the seven of England’s floodlit Tests so far, and although a hundred in his debut outing versus the Windies back in 2017, his overall average above 50 falls to just over 38 under lights.

On the other hand, bowler Mitchell Starc holds an average near 29 and a strike rate around 50 overall, yet these figures shift to 17 and 33 respectively with the pink ball. In his last floodlit game, against West Indies, he took six for nine as West Indies were bowled out for 27—career-best figures that were soon surpassed by taking seven wickets for 58 in Perth.

Key Battle Between Root and Starc Could Shape Series

The matchup between Root and Starc is shaping up to be one of the deciding factors in the Ashes. While Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have traditionally caused him issues, with them missing in the first Test, it was Starc who got him out for a duck and eight.

Root later reasoned the initial wicket came from a fine delivery—the type that might not carry the slips in England. His next dismissal, when he chopped on, during England’s the team's slump, was a miscalculation on his part. “I know I’m a good player,” he said. “I believe I will return to form.”

The Touring Side's Hurdles and Readiness

Starc now uses the wobble-seam as his preferred weapon nowadays—he admitted he wished he'd heeded his teammates' suggestions earlier—and in muggy conditions, swing could come into play. England, trailing 1-0, face additional obstacles in this Test, and runs from their top batsman would help them recover from a self-inflicted hole.

This may not require a hundred if another quick-fire match occurs, yet Root's absence of a ton on Australian soil continues to haunt him. “I didn't get time to think about it,” he modestly answered when asked whether that record bothered him during the first Test.

Team Selection and Historic Opportunity

The England squad trained intensely over the weekend, to the sound of hip-hop setting the tone on a hot afternoon. Monday and Wednesday are crucial for their readiness, conducted in evening conditions.

Wood being unavailable due to a knee issue has created an opening in the lineup, with Jacks netting with the main batters suggests he might be in contention. The all-rounder’s off-spin are adequate, and extra runs down the order could balance any bowling leaks.

That said, seamer Tongue has been with the Lions elsewhere and remains an option should England choose an all-pace attack, and spinner Bashir was included last week. Much to think about, indeed, at a ground where England have not won a Test for decades.

“It is a chance to make history,” Root said regarding this. “It would make it all the sweeter if we succeed at this ground.”