Can Joe Root make a comeback in T20I cricket?

Joe Root is preparing for a highly anticipated return to England's 50-over setup after being named in the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against India. Root, who has been a mainstay in England's batting line-up for years, hasn’t featured in an ODI since the 2023 ICC Men's World Cup. His last appearance in T20I cricket came in 2019, marking a lengthy absence from the shorter formats. Despite this, the 32-year-old batter has been a key player for his domestic and franchise teams, recently showcasing his excellent form in the SA20 league. Root has been in stellar touch in his debut season with Paarl Royals in the 2025 SA20.

Over eight matches, he has accumulated 279 runs at an impressive average of 55.80, including a strike rate of 140.20. These strong performances have reignited his ambition to make a return to all formats of the game for England. Root expressed his excitement about the opportunity to play more T20 cricket, particularly as he sets his sights on rejoining England’s T20I squad in the future. His upcoming ODI series against India marks the next step in his journey, and Root is eager to make the most of his opportunity to re-establish himself in both limited-overs formats for England.

"I think you are always a better player when you are not in the team. I am just going to try and play the best cricket I can. You look at that squad (England T20Is), it's full of talented players. They can take the game away from the best bowlers in the world," Senior England batter Joe Root told SA20.

"I want to play as much for England as I can, in all formats. But, you know, at the same time, I have got to play more T20 cricket to prove myself and see where that takes me," he added.

Joe Root had a standout year in Test cricket in 2024, finishing as the highest run-scorer in the format. He accumulated an impressive 1,556 runs at an average of 55.57 across 17 Test matches, cementing his place as one of England’s most consistent performers. Root's exceptional form in the longest format has further solidified his reputation as a mainstay in the England batting lineup.

Now, with the upcoming ODI series against India, Root will be eager to carry that momentum into limited-overs cricket. His return to the 50-over format comes at a crucial time, with the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy just around the corner. Root will be aiming to get some valuable runs under his belt, especially with the pressure of the major international tournament on the horizon. Having spent the past few years focusing more on Test cricket, the three-match ODI series against India presents an important opportunity for Root to regain his rhythm in the 50-over format and build towards a successful Champions Trophy campaign.