Joe Root opens up about his England career with Sky Cricket

Joe Root has come a long way since his making his first-class debut as a 16-year-old for Yorkshire nine years ago.

The 25-year-old is now ranked No 2 in the world in the ICC Test batting rankings behind Australia captain Steve Smith, with his stock boosted further by a majestic career-high knock of 254 in England's second Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford.

Root has always dreamed of playing for his country, telling Sky Cricket that turning out for England is what he aspired to do when he was young man picking up a bat for the first time.  

"To represent England is what it's about. It's why I started playing the game," Root said.

"My love for the sport is huge and to get to the highest level and be able to play Test cricket is the pinnacle.

"There is no better feeling that making a really big score or getting over the line and winning a big series having contributed to that scenario, so to play for England is everything for me."

Live Test Cricket

Root now has almost 4000 Test runs to his name but admits he would have settled for just the one cap at the time he made his debut against India in Nagpur three-and-a-half years ago.

"That was a great feeling," he said, recalling being handed his cap by Paul Collingwood. "I remember ringing my dad the night before and telling him I was playing and he couldn't get his visa in time to get across to India but he said he would be up all night watching.

"I was just so happy to get that opportunity and I knew if I had just that one opportunity to play for England that would be enough. I'm very thankful I have managed to go on and play a bit more."

Click on the video above to see the rest of the feature as Joe Root reflects on his career so far and sets out what he wants to achieve in the future.