Former England spinner Monty Panesar has issued a stark warning to Joe Root, suggesting that the upcoming Ashes series in Australia could be a defining moment in his Test career. Drawing parallels with Virat Kohli's struggles and subsequent Test retirement, Panesar believes that a poor performance in Australia could lead to similar questions about Root's future at the highest level.

Root, who currently sits second on the list of all-time leading Test run-scorers, has been a standout performer for England in recent years. However, one glaring omission from his illustrious record is the lack of a Test century in Australia. In 27 innings Down Under, he has amassed 892 runs at an average of 35.68, with nine half-centuries.

Panesar believes that the fast and bouncy tracks in Australia will pose a significant challenge for Root. He noted that Root has struggled with deliveries outside the fourth and fifth stump in the past, and a failure to adapt could lead to his downfall.

"It really depends on how next year unfolds for him, especially during the Ashes," Panesar said. "We saw what happened with Virat Kohli. He went to Australia and struggled with deliveries outside the fourth and fifth stump. That may have played a role in his decision, or a joint decision, to retire. Similarly, if Joe Root has a poor Ashes series, things could change quickly. Sometimes, just one bad series can shift everything suddenly. It's a different game altogether. England could end up losing their coach or even their captain if things go badly. People may start asking whether Root has passed his prime".

Panesar isn't the only one who has weighed in on Root's chances in Australia. Former Australia opener David Warner recently engaged in some pre-Ashes banter, urging Root to "take the surfboard off his front leg". Root, however, seemed unfazed by the sledging, stating that he prefers to let his bat do the talking.

Despite the challenges, Root remains determined to score his first Test century in Australia. He has been working hard on his game and is confident that he can overcome his struggles Down Under. "What more can I do about it? Just keep my surfboard out of the way and make sure it is not a talking point in 100 days' time," Root said. He emphasized that the banter is "all part of the fun".

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025, has been discussing his own experiences in Australia. He admitted that the recent Test tour was a disappointment and hinted that he may not play in Australia again. "I might not have another Australia tour in me, so I am at peace with whatever happened in the past," Kohli said.

Kohli's retirement from Test cricket came after a period of inconsistent form, particularly in Australia. He struggled with the moving ball and was often dismissed outside off stump. However, Australian legend Michael Clarke has suggested that Kohli could reverse his decision if India suffers a heavy defeat in England. "If India go to England and get flogged, if they lose the series 5-0 for example, I think the fans will want Virat Kohli to come out of retirement and play Test cricket again," Clarke said.

As for Root, the Ashes 2025-26 series, starting on November 21 in Perth, presents a crucial opportunity to silence his critics and cement his legacy as one of the greatest Test batsmen of all time. Whether he can overcome his Australian hoodoo remains to be seen, but the pressure is undoubtedly on. A poor series could not only jeopardize his own career but also have wider implications for the England team.