I'VE NEVER SEEN BEN SO STOKED

Root inspired by skipper's Ashes preparations

- RORY DOLLARD

JOE ROOT has revealed the “infectious” powers of England skipper Ben Stokes - with the Ashes just weeks away.

Root believes England are ready to end their decade-long Ashes drought and “bring the urn home”.

The First Test starts in Perth on November 21 and one thing that already appears to be trending in England's direction is the fitness of the rival captains.

While the news from Australia suggests Pat Cummins is facing a gloomy outlook he is set to miss Perth and with further uncertainty for the remainder - Root is tipping Stokes to come out all guns blazing.

Stokes was back to his all-round best against India this summer, until a shoulder injury ruled him out of the deciding Test.

But he has been working to be back at the peak of his powers for what could be the biggest series of his life.