BAYLISS: ASHES SPOTS ARE STILL UP FOR GRABS

JOE ROOT is excited at the England team he is building for the Ashes, but both he and coach Trevor Bayliss realise there are problems ahead.

It is no small achievement to beat South Africa by two clear Tests – something that had not been done by England since the Proteas’ readmission to international cricket.

“It’s very important to have got off to a good start this summer,” said England’s new captain Root.

“You always want to build momentum for the challenges to come. To come across a side like South Africa, who are very strong – especially away from home – and to play the way we have done is very pleasing.

“There is a lot of hard work still to come to make sure we put in similar performances against a West Indies side that need to be respected. “It’s the start of something.” England will expect to head Down Under with another series win against a weakened Windies, but Bayliss admits they are still searching for batsmen at two, three and five.

Asked if they had solved any of these problems, the Aussie replied: “To be honest, no.

“These guys know they have things to work on and so are working incredibly hard.

“Hopefully it’s not before too long we see some big scores from them.

“We are not papering over the cracks, we know there are spots that haven’t been cemented and it’s up to guys to prove their worth at this level.

“It’s no secret we’re still looking for guys to put their hands up. When we pick the side for the West Indies, I’m sure the Ashes will be in the back of the minds.

“We want to go into the Ashes with two series wins. That will give the boys confidence.”