England batsmen Joe Root believes his side cannot take anything for granted in the upcoming Ashes campaign despite winning the last three series against the Australians.
Andy Flower’s men have travelled Down Under as the favourites to win the series, with some pundits suggesting that the firmer southern hemisphere wickets could suit their impressive seam attack, with James Anderson and Stuart Broad expected to once again shine.
The pitches could also benefit Root, who struggled somewhat in the home series but will more than likely thrive in Australia as the extra pace will allow him to demonstrate his superb shot-making skills.
The series gets underway at the Gabba in Brisbane on November 21 before further Tests in Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney.
After dominating over the last five years, confidence is understandably high in the English camp but there is also a feeling of resurgence in the Aussie squad following an encouraging summer which saw them push their opponents all the way.
Root admits that this time around England are much more wary of Michael Clarke’s side and believes that rather than cruising to success like in the past, they will have to be at their best if they are to retain the famous urn.
“I think it would be wrong to look too much into the last series,” Root said. “This is a completely different one and we want to make sure that we don’t take anything for granted.
“We want to come into the series working hard and respecting the opposition. Australia are a good side and we are going to have to play well to win the series.”
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