England batsman Jonathan Trott praises team-mate Joe Root
Last Updated: February 21, 2013 2:51pm
England batsman Jonathan Trott has welcomed Joe Root's rise to prominence in the limited overs formats.
The pair put on a century partnership to help England level the ODI series against New Zealand courtesy of an emphatic eight-wicket success in Napier, with Root assuming the role of aggressor.
At just 22, Yorkshireman Root has played in just seven ODIs thus far, but played with an unerring maturity and eye-catching creativity in scoring an unbeaten 79.
Joe Root stats
ODIs: 7
Innings: 6
Not outs: 2
Runs: 298
Highest: 79 not out
Average: 74.50
Strike-rate: 92.83
Trott said of the youngster's emergence: "Joe's a very impressive young lad.
"It's important to keep developing as a young player, and appreciate how tough international cricket can be. It's a fantastic start for him, and he looks a fine talent.
"As long as he continues to work hard, and guys around him support him, his future certainly looks bright."
Looking ahead to facing the Black Caps in Saturday's decider at Eden Park, Trott added: "They are fantastic players, who can turn a game. They are the danger. But they've also got a lot of other good players who could hurt us.
"It's important to keep our wits about us and not get too over-confident, complacent or think the game is there for the taking.
"We've got to turn up in Auckland and play to our top level."
