India, Jan. 25 -- Joe Root threw his support behind Harry Brook's leadership after England's series-levelling win in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, saying the English ODI captain has accepted responsibility for the "drinking gate" and is ready to move forward.

In the post-match conversation, Root also backed Brendon McCullum and the wider coaching group despite the Ashes disappointment in Australia, while stressing he will only judge that tour properly once this trip ends.

On the Brook incident, Root made it clear he sees accountability, not a derailment. "He's apologised, he's taken his punishment and he's desperate to take this team forward," Root said. "I think he's going to be a brilliant England captain and he's going to do wond...