Joe not tickled pink by day-night Test format

JOE Root is sceptical about the value of day/night Test cricket in the Ashes and prefers the “traditional” red-ball game.

- By RORY DOLLARD

Australia star Travis Head

After losing their series opener inside two days at Perth, England head back into battle against Australia on Thursday, looking to get back on level terms in Brisbane.

But the degree of difficulty has been cranked up by the fact the second Test will be played under the Gabba floodlights with a pink Kookaburra.

There have only been 24 day/night men’s Tests since the option was ushered in a decade ago and they have become something of an Australian speciality.

While the concept has been welcomed in lukewarm fashion elsewhere, it has become a regular fixture for the Baggy Greens, who have played 14, hosted 13 and won 12.

England, meanwhile, have won only twice in seven attempts under lights, losing three times Down Under.

“I don’t think you need it in Ashes series, absolutely not,’ Root said as England took part in an afternoon session at the Gabba.