Beyond the pristine cricket pitches and the intense glare of international competition, how does one of England’s most prolific batsmen, Joe Root, truly unwind? For a sportsman constantly under the spotlight, finding pockets of peace is paramount. Root’s secrets to mental equilibrium are surprisingly simple yet profoundly effective: an Apple Pencil, a digital canvas, and the soulful strum of a guitar.
The Unseen Artist: Joe Root’s Digital Canvas
When the roar of the crowd fades and the pressures of touring mount, Joe Root often finds solace in the quiet contemplation of an iPad. Armed with an Apple Pencil, he immerses himself in sketching, transforming hotel rooms and pre-flight waits into tranquil art studios. It’s more than just a pastime; for Root, it’s a vital escape valve, a way to disconnect from the relentless demands of elite cricket and reconnect with a deep-seated passion he’s harbored since his school days.
“If I didn’t play cricket, I’d still have done drawing,” he shared recently on UK Vitality’s ‘Day in the life of’ show. “It’s a really nice way to switch off, take my mind off the stresses of touring, or fill time before flying.” This creative outlet isn’t just about relaxation; Root sees profound parallels between his artistic pursuits and his on-field brilliance. He likens a batsman to an artist, meticulously constructing an innings, choosing shots, and adapting to different bowling attacks – a nuanced dance of strategy and creativity.
Harmony Beyond the Boundary: Joe Root’s Musical Escape
It’s not uncommon to spot Root, often with a ukulele or guitar in hand, belting out Oasis classics like “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” Music is another cornerstone of his unwinding routine. He often travels with his guitar, a cherished instrument gifted to him by a friend, complete with a message wishing him luck against Australia during a pivotal Ashes series. These musical interludes provide a different kind of mental release.
Whether he’s painstakingly learning a new riff or simply strumming familiar chords, the act of creating music offers a therapeutic counterpoint to the high-stakes world of Test cricket. It’s a space where he can lose himself for hours, allowing melodies to wash away the day’s intensity and reconnecting him with a different rhythm of life.
From Captaincy Pressure to Childhood Joy: Root’s Mental Game
Handling immense pressure is part and parcel of being a world-class cricketer, especially for a former captain like Root. His strategy for coping is remarkably grounded: he reverts to the pure, unadulterated joy of his childhood. He remembers those days in Sheffield, rain or shine, playing imaginary Test matches in the garden, on the driveway, or even in the street with his brother, dreaming of epic clashes against Australia or South Africa.
That raw, uncomplicated emotion of loving the game serves as his anchor. Now, unburdened by captaincy, Root is keen to savor the second half of his career, finding renewed enjoyment in every moment on the field. This conscious shift in mindset, drawing on nostalgic joy, helps him navigate the mental complexities of professional sport.
Sheffield Serenity: Family Time and a New Sporting Passion
Amidst his global travels, time at home with his family remains invaluable. After a demanding winter touring schedule, Root relished the opportunity to spend quality time with his children at the start of the summer, dropping them off at school and hearing their whimsical aspirations – ninja, chef, inventor. These domestic moments offer a crucial grounding experience, a stark contrast to the often isolated life of a touring athlete.
Beyond his creative and musical outlets, Root has recently embraced a new, more active hobby: padel. A popular racket sport, padel has found a home in his local Sheffield village with the opening of a new centre. For Root, it’s not just about exercise; it’s a social outlet that scratches his competitive itch while allowing him to bond with friends. As he wisely notes, one of the best aspects of sport is the lifelong friendships it fosters, adding another layer to his well-rounded approach to life beyond the crease.
