While England’s XI struggled at the World Cup in India, Joe Root insisted that he would still prefer England’s XI over Australia’s.

Despite five losses in six matches, England sit bottom of the table and are effectively out, while Australia are third after four wins in a row.

It is mathematically impossible for England to defend their title if Australia wins in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

The Australians are my enemies every single day, but I’d take this team over them every single day,” Root said.

The best teams can’t compete with us when we play our best stuff.

The next couple of days are going to be critical for us to make sure we’re mentally and physically prepared for Australia, which is what this is all about.”

The English have struggled throughout the World Cup despite coming into it as one of the favorites.

New Zealand thrashed them in their opener, followed by a win over Bangladesh, but they have since lost to Afghanistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and India.

It was a “great time” for England to play Australia, as they aim to qualify for the Champions Trophy in 2025.

Pakistan must finish in the top seven to guarantee a place in that tournament, but eighth place will be sufficient if they finish in the top seven.

This is a great opportunity to get back to what we expect from ourselves, as well as what is expected of us externally,” Root said.

Despite what we’ve shown, we’re a far better side than what we’ve shown.”

Although Root said England’s performance was frustrating, he said it was not similar to the disintegration experienced at previous World Cups.