Joe Root has called on England to take advantage of Steve Smith’s concussion-enforced absence from the Headingley Test, while crossing his fingers Jason Roy does not miss out for the same reason.

Australia’s hopes of improving their position in the series, 1-0 up after a big win at Edgbaston and last week’s Lord’s draw, took a hit with the news that their best player has not been cleared for action for day one on Thursday.

Root knows how it feels to be denied a star performer, having lost record wicket-taker James Anderson to a calf injury on the first morning of the first Test, and realises the opportunity Jofra Archer’s 92mph bouncer has created.

Root also offered a different perspective when asked for his own experiences of hostile bowling.

“The thing that hurts the most is your ego,” Root said.

“You’re stood out there in front of 35,000 people and someone has mugged you off a bit. That’s how it feels when I’ve been hit. You pride yourself on being able to either get out of the way or take it on.”

There is sure to be an even greater emphasis on Archer’s performance over the next five days given his eye-catching debut, but Root has seen nothing to doubt his readiness.

“He’s dealing with it pretty well, I think. He sets up his Fortnite (video game) at the hotel and plays. He’s just a very relaxed character, unfazed by anything. He’s one of those guys who seems to be born for these occasions.”