England Test captain Joe Root has welcomed the decision to bring former England batter Kevin Pietersen into the national setup as a specialist mentor for the white-ball sides. Root feels Pietersen’s deep understanding of batting and his willingness to share strong opinions could prove valuable as England prepare for the 50-over World Cup in South Africa next year.

Joe Root hails Kevin Pietersen’s knowledge and energy

Root sees Pietersen’s extensive experience, particularly when it comes to batting, as one of his biggest strengths. The former England batter was known throughout his career for his aggressive approach and ability to adapt to different conditions.

“I think he’s really knowledgeable, he has got a very good understanding of batting in particular and he’s got a huge amount of energy,” Root said.

The England captain believes those qualities can make Pietersen an important figure within the white-ball setup. Rather than viewing his outspoken personality as a potential issue, Root feels the players can benefit from having someone prepared to speak honestly.

“I think you want people to give their honest opinion. Why would you get him involved if you didn’t want him to tell you what you think and to give his insight into the game,” explained Root.

For Root, Pietersen’s willingness to challenge players and provide an alternative perspective is precisely what makes his involvement worthwhile.

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Pietersen’s influence on Root goes back to 2012

Root’s support for Pietersen is also based on personal experience. The Yorkshire batter made his Test debut in 2012 and was still learning the demands of international cricket when he shared an England dressing room with one of the team’s most experienced players.

“I am probably the last player to have played with him still going. I really enjoyed him as a senior player coming into the team. He was someone that I would be shadowing all the time,” added Root.

Root particularly remembered the 2012-13 tour of India, where he tried to learn as much as possible from Pietersen, especially when it came to handling spin bowling. Root explained that he deliberately tried to spend time with Pietersen in the nets, observing his preparation and asking questions about batting in challenging conditions.

“That first Tour of India (2012/13) in particular, I tried to buddy up with him in the nets, watch how he practised, watch how he did things, ask him for advice and he was really open, really honest, very helpful in terms of how to get the best out of my game against spin,” revealed Root.

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