
The Ashes: 'Does it need it? I don't think so' - Root questions day-night Test
Joe Root does not believe a day-night Test is necessary during the ongoing Ashes Series, though Travis Head argues they provide "a great spectacle".
England trail 1-0 in the five-match series following their commanding defeat in Perth.
The tourists will look to bounce back in Brisbane, where the second Test gets under way at the Gabba on Thursday.
England are seeking their first win at the ground since 1986, in what will be only their eighth pink-ball Test, with their previous seven bringing just two victories.
Sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2015, Root was asked whether he thought the Ashes required one.
"I personally don't think so," he told BBC Sport. "It does add to things. It's successful and popular here, and Australia have got a good record here as well. You can see why we're playing one of those games.
"Ultimately, you know from two years out, it is going to be there. It's part and parcel of making sure you're ready for it.
Joe Root on...
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 30, 2025
Pink ball cricket
The Aussie attack
Being tactically adaptable
Playing in a MASSIVE second Test
And 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 in our nine-minute sit-down with Rooty
"A series like this, does it need it? I don't think so, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be here either."
Nevertheless, Root did suggest England should embrace the challenge, adding: "There will be different elements to contend with, but that is all part of the fun, right? Can we be skilful enough and brave enough to be better than Australia in those big moments?"
The hosts boast an impressive record when it comes to day-night Tests, winning 13 of their previous 14.
Travis Head, who played a starring role during the opening Test, is relishing the occasion at the Gabba.
"We've embraced it. We've been able to put out a good product and play really well with it," he said. "Pink ball, white ball, red ball – who really cares? Does it need it, does it not? It's a great spectacle, and we're going to have huge crowds again.
"If you win, you think it's great. If you lose, maybe not. Both teams may have differing opinions by the end of it. I think it's great for the game.
"We talk about T20, T10 and you see all these different formats. It still works the same way. It's still five days, it's just with a slightly different coloured ball, and it brings a different atmosphere."


