England's Zak Crawley has offered a heartwarming glimpse into the team's private celebrations following Joe Root's long-awaited maiden Test century on Australian soil. The emotional moment, which came during the ongoing Ashes series, reportedly sparked jubilant scenes in the visitors' dressing room, underlining the immense respect and affection the squad holds for the former captain.
The Long-Awaited Milestone Down Under
For years, a Test hundred in Australia had eluded Joe Root, one of England's modern batting greats. Despite his towering record elsewhere, this particular frontier remained unconquered. When he finally breached it during the first Test of the 2025 Ashes series at the Gabba in Brisbane, the significance was not lost on anyone, least of all his teammates. Root's knock of 118 was a masterclass in patience and skill, helping England post a competitive first-innings total.
Zak Crawley, who was at the other end for a part of Root's innings, described the atmosphere as electric. He revealed that the entire squad was intently watching, their nerves and excitement growing with each run Root added towards the landmark. The moment he clipped the ball for a single to reach three figures, the England balcony and dressing room erupted in unbridled joy.
Crawley's Inside Account of the Celebration
"We were all just so thrilled for him," Crawley recounted. "You have to understand what a player of his caliber means to this team. To see him achieve something that had been talked about for so long was incredibly special." According to the opener, the celebration was a mix of raw emotion and genuine admiration. Veteran fast bowler James Anderson was seen leading the applause, while coach Brendon McCullum was reportedly beaming with pride.
Crawley emphasized that the reaction went beyond just celebrating a milestone in a match. It was a testament to Root's character and his standing within the group. "It shows how much everyone loves him and respects what he's done for English cricket," Crawley added. The century was seen as a just reward for Root's unwavering dedication and a symbolic conquering of his final batting frontier.
Impact on the Team and the Ashes Series
Beyond the personal triumph, Root's century provided a massive psychological boost to the England team at the start of a crucial Ashes campaign. Playing in Australia is the ultimate challenge for any English cricketer, and a century from their most experienced batter set a positive tone. It reinforced the team's belief in their aggressive 'Bazball' approach under pressure in away conditions.
The innings also served as a powerful reminder of Root's class and his pivotal role in the middle order, especially after relinquishing the captaincy. His ability to anchor the innings allows players like Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Harry Brook to play with more freedom. This knock has undoubtedly lifted the spirits of the entire touring party as they look to reclaim the Ashes urn on Australian soil for the first time since 2010-11.
In conclusion, Zak Crawley's revelation provides fans with a touching behind-the-scenes look at team camaraderie. Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia was not just a personal milestone but a collective victory celebrated with deep emotion by his teammates, highlighting the strong bond within the England cricket team as they battle for the Ashes.
