Published: Oct 11, 2015, 11:12 PM (IST)
Edited: Oct 11, 2015, 11:12 PM (IST)
London: England vice-captain Joe Root believes that his side can upset the odds to become the first nation ever to beat Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates starting on Tuesday. Pakistan will start the three-match series as favourites, while the Alastair Cook-led side will attempt to avenge the 0-3 loss suffered on their last tour in the UAE. The 24-year-old batsman said that England have proven that they possess the capability to pull off big upset over the last six months, pointing to their 3-2 Ashes win over Australia, the Mirror reported. Root, who had ascended to numero uno position in Tests following a stellar run in the prestigious tournament, insisted that he was determined to make big contribution in the series, adding that he would be pleased to be part of a team to beat Pakistan for the first time in the UAE. England can tackle Pakistani spin as well as UAE heat, claims Joe Root
Earlier, Root insisted on Saturday that his side can cope with the twin challenge of Pakistan spin and the searing heat of the Gulf in their three-Test series. As underdogs, England regained the Ashes at home two months ago but now face a daunting threat from Pakistan who wrapped up a 3-0 series win on the last occasion the two teams met in the Middle East. “As a team, to beat Pakistan here it’s going to be a big effort but we’ve proven over the last six months that we’re capable of doing things that maybe looked a bit too much for us,” said Root ahead of the first Test which starts Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, reported AFP.
