By Betsefy
Joe Root has claimed that England ‘cannot hide behind any excuses’ after being blown away in the Ashes series by Australia.
England lost by an innings and 14 runs in the third Test, confirming that the Baggy Greens would retain the urn as they bid to seal a whitewash win over the coming weeks.
The tourists went into the series with a lack of preparation and had to deal with a coronavirus scare during the most recent Test, but Root has insisted that his squad must focus on trying to show some ‘resilience’ during the closing double-header.
Speaking to BT Sport, Root said: “It is bitterly disappointing and gut-wrenching. We have been thoroughly outplayed. We know we have underperformed and have to be mentally resilient and very strong. We have to give the people back home something to enjoy and celebrate.
In a later interview with Test Match Special, Root added: “We know we have to be better. We can’t hide behind any excuses, there are clear areas we need to work on and we’ve got two opportunities with the last two Test matches.”
England now have an extended break before the next match, which is due to commence on January 5.
