Joe Root has strongly rejected the suggestion that Pakistan have shown "no fight" in their Test series against England, calling such a claim disrespectful to both sides. Speaking ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston, which begins on Wednesday, Root emphasized that the narrative oversimplifies a complex situation and undermines the effort of both teams.
The context for Root's comments is the dominant position England currently enjoys in the three‑match series, having taken a 2‑0 lead after comprehensive victories at Headingley and Lord's. Pakistan, on the other hand, have endured a turbulent period. Following heavy defeats, the Pakistan Cricket Board made the unprecedented decision to send home seven players and replace them with seven new faces.
In addition, head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and his assistant Umar Gul were dismissed. The white‑ball responsibilities have been handed to Mike Hesson, while former Australian fast bowler Ashley Noffke has been appointed to oversee the third Test at Edgbaston.
The board has also launched an inquiry into media reports concerning discipline and conduct, adding another layer of uncertainty to the touring side. When asked what it feels like to face a side that some commentators label as offering "no fight," Root responded that such a label is unfair and disrespectful to both Pakistan and England. He argued that the reality lies somewhere in the middle, with each team having its own strengths and weaknesses. "Absolutely we have found Pakistan a challenge," Root said.
"To suggest they are not fighting is disrespectful to them as a team and to us as a team. It ignores the quality we have displayed and the quick adaptation we have made to the conditions and pitches.
It is too easy to say one side is excellent and the other is poor. In most cases the truth sits somewhere in between.
If one team is outstanding, the other cannot be described as poor, and vice‑versa. We need to recognise that nuance." Root went on to stress that, regardless of the outcomes of the first two Tests, the upcoming match presents a completely new proposition. "There is a very talented group of players in that dressing room, and you have to be ready for anything.
We will prepare accordingly and give our best," he added. The series has also sparked debate about England's opening partnership. Emilio Gay, who has featured in five Tests this summer and recorded two half‑centuries, has an average of around 23. With the return of Jacob Bethell and the emergence of Jordan Cox, speculation has arisen about whether Gay will retain his opening slot.
Root clarified that these possibilities remain speculative and that the focus must remain on the immediate challenge. He praised Gay's contributions, noting the importance of context when evaluating runs in a low‑scoring series.
"Emilio has been brilliant in the conditions we have had and it would be unfair to discuss his future outside of this game," Root said. "He has played vital knocks, and context matters when you have low‑scoring games and a low‑scoring series.
He has performed well in some of the toughest conditions we have faced." In other news, the England set‑up has welcomed back former star Kevin Pietersen as a specialist mentor for the white‑ball teams ahead of next year's Cricket World Cup in Africa. Pietersen will join head coach Brendon McCullum's staff for the upcoming T20 and ODI series against Sri Lanka, working alongside Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee, Jeetan Patel and Sarah Taylor. Root, who is the only current England player to have shared a dressing room with Pietersen, reflected on the value of that experience.
"I am probably the last player still active who played with him," he said. "I really enjoyed having him as a senior player. I would shadow him in the nets, watch how he practiced, ask for advice, especially on playing spin, and he was always open and honest. If he can bring that same level of insight in a coaching role, it will be hugely beneficial for the group." When asked whether Pietersen's controversial reputation might cause any friction, Root stressed the importance of frankness at the highest level of sport.
"You want people to give their honest opinion," he said. "Why would you involve him if you didn't want his candid insight? He has a deep understanding of batting, tremendous energy, and his knowledge will be a great asset for the team.
I am looking forward to his involvement." The third Test will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event from 10 a.m. on Wednesday, with the first ball scheduled for 11 a.m. For viewers without a Sky subscription, alternative streaming options are available through NOW and other platforms. Overall, Root's remarks underline a desire to move beyond simplistic narratives and recognize the competitive spirit present on both sides.
While England enjoys a strong lead, Pakistan's recent upheavals and the ongoing investigation into disciplinary matters add layers of complexity to the contest. The upcoming match at Edgbaston promises to be a compelling encounter, testing the resilience and adaptability of both squads as they vie for series supremacy.