Joe Root could step down as England skipper after Ashes debacle

England Test captain Joe Root could step down from the role after a humiliating defeat in the third Ashes Test in Melbourne. It was a forgetful day for the visitors as they were bundled out for just 68 runs, losing the Boxing Day Test by an innings and 14 runs. The loss has ended England's hopes of winning the Ashes as well.

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Root has had a dream run with the bat in 2021. He is the highest run-scorer this year, with 1708 runs, which is the third-highest for a batter in a calendar year. However, he has got very little support from the rest of the batters as the second-highest run-scorer in the team, Rory Burns is a staggering 1,178 runs behind him. In the ongoing Ashes series as well, Root has shouldered the responsibility of run-scoring singlehandedly. He is the leading run-getter for England, scoring 253 runs in six innings at an average of 42.17. However, the rest of the batters have failed to put up a fight.

Following the third straight defeat in Melbourne, there are speculations that Root might step down from the role. Former England bowler Jonathan Agnew at the BBC Test Match Special said he would be surprised if Root continues to lead England.

England have had a horrid run in Tests this year. They won a series against Sri Lanka but lost to India in an away series. They then suffered a series loss to New Zealand at home and lost two of the four games to India in England. The Ashes has been nothing less than a nightmare for the visitors.

"I would be surprised if Joe Root continues as captain," he said. "I saw a very tired figure down there just now." Root was also asked bout his future as Test captain to which the batter refused to comment.

England will now have to play for pride in the upcoming two Ashes Test to be played in Sydney and Hobart.