Joe Root has always been a key component in England's test lineup but — such is the current fragility of its top order — it is probably no exaggeration to suggest the nation's Ashes hopes will stand or fall on the captain's batting form.
Since the departure of the ever-dependable Alastair Cook, England has tried various top-three combinations without ever finding anything of substance, a situation that has piled even more pressure and responsibility on Root.
After a dip from 2018 to 2020, he has risen to the challenge this year, chalking up 1,455 runs at an average of 66.1 to reclaim his position at the top of the world rankings. England has scored seven centuries in 2021 and Root has made six of them.