Joe Root says England team is very different from when Pietersen left

Joe Root, England’s Test captain, has publicly remarked that the current England white‑ball side is “very different” from the squad that saw Kevin Pietersen dismissed in 2014. Root’s comments come after Pietersen, a former England batsman, was appointed to the coaching staff of the national one‑day and T20 teams. The former England star, who had been a key figure in the side that reached the 2015 World Cup final, now works alongside the coaching setup that has guided England to a series of white‑ball successes in recent years.

The 2014 squad, which included Pietersen, was widely criticised for its lack of cohesion and inconsistent performances, culminating in a heavy defeat to India that led to Pietersen’s dismissal from the team. Since then, England’s white‑ball program has undergone a significant overhaul, with new leadership, a focus on data‑driven strategies, and a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Root’s observation underscores the evolution in team culture and tactical approach that has helped England secure series wins in both the Ashes and the ICC World Cup.

Root’s statement highlights the broader shift in English cricket, where former players now contribute off the field while the current squad embraces a more modern, analytical mindset. With Pietersen’s coaching role and the continued development of a new generation of players, England’s white‑ball side appears poised to build on its recent achievements and maintain its position as a global cricketing powerhouse.