Root needs to dig in

JOE Root arrived in Australia as one of the world’s best batsmen but now faces the grim prospect of leaving as England’s worst-performing Ashes touring captain in 40 years.

Just 10 months into the top job, Root has surrendered the urn after Australia took an unassailable 3-0 series lead following their crushing innings victory at the WACA Ground.

But his return of 176 runs at an average of 29.33 over the first three Tests has cast doubt on his ability to handle the pressure.

And if he doesn’t get out of his funk, Root’s average could fall below Alistair Cook’s 24.60 as captain during England’s 5-0 series loss in 2013-14.

Not since Mike Brearley averaged 22.18 during his nine Tests in charge of England in Australia from 1978-1980 has an Ashes touring captain contributed less with the bat.

For Root to remain above Cook, he needs 70 runs from his next four innings in Tests at the MCG and SCG.

Ironically, Cook is fighting to salvage his own Test career after scoring only 83 runs at an average of 13.83 this series.

“As a captain, you take a lot of responsibility,” Root, 26, said. “You’re always learning, you’re always finding things out about yourself and your team. That can only make me a better player and a better captain.”

Root denied off-field dramas affected his own form.

First, star all-rounder Ben Stokes was arrested before the series began following an alleged fight outside a Bristol nightclub.

Wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow then had to explain his actions after greeting Cameron Bancroft with a headbutt at a Perth night spot.

And the tour went from bad to worse after fringe player Ben Duckett was punished for pouring a beer over senior teammate Jimmy Anderson.

Instead, Root said it was simply a case of trying too hard. His dismissal in the second innings in Perth summed up his plight.

Facing Nathan Lyon’s first delivery of the spell, Root edged a wide one to the wicketkeeper, with the ball deflecting off the gloves and into the hands of Steve Smith at first slip.

Root was criticised for going so hard at Lyon’s first ball but he said it was a ball he should have put away.

“I’d like to think that if he bowled me that again, I’d smash it for four,” Root said.