Joe Root says Kevin Pietersen’s experience and batting knowledge can strengthen England’s white-ball setup ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
England Test captain Joe Root has welcomed the appointment of former England batter and ICC Hall of Famer Kevin Pietersen as a specialist mentor for the national team’s white-ball setup. Root believes Pietersen’s vast experience and strong understanding of batting can provide significant benefits to England.
Root has a personal connection with Pietersen, having shared the England dressing room with him during the early stages of his international career. The current England captain recalled how closely he observed Pietersen when he was developing as a batter.
The first tour of India during the 2012-13 season was particularly important for Root. He sought Pietersen’s guidance in the nets, studied his preparation and regularly asked for advice, especially about handling spin bowling. Root said Pietersen was open and helpful, and believes those qualities could now translate effectively into a mentoring role.
According to Root, Pietersen brings extensive cricket knowledge, a strong understanding of batting and considerable energy. He also believes the former batter’s willingness to offer honest opinions will make him a valuable addition to England’s group as preparations build towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
While praising Pietersen’s appointment, Root remains focused on England’s immediate Test challenge against Pakistan. England have already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, but Root stressed that the visitors have provided a significant challenge throughout the contest.
The England captain rejected the idea that the series scoreline accurately reflects a gap in quality between the two sides. He credited England’s ability to adapt quickly to match situations and playing conditions for preventing Pakistan from gaining greater control in the opening two Tests.
England will now aim to complete a 3-0 series victory when they face Pakistan in the third and final Test at Edgbaston, beginning Wednesday, September 9. Root emphasized that the hosts cannot afford to become complacent, describing the final Test as a fresh challenge despite their comfortable series advantage.