England’s former Test captain Joe Root has added another major milestone to his illustrious career by becoming the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history. The achievement came during the first innings of the fourth Test against India in Manchester, a series that has seen Root in exceptional form.
Climbing the All-Time Greats Ladder
Root started the third day of the Test on 11 not out, needing just a few runs to surpass some of cricket’s biggest legends. He first overtook Rahul Dravid on reaching 30, then went past Jacques Kallis with a single the very next ball. But the biggest moment came when Root crossed Ricky Ponting’s tally, moving into second place on the all-time list with a majestic knock.
Root now stands at 13,409 Test runs, leaving only Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar ahead of him. Tendulkar’s monumental record of 15,921 Test runs means Root still needs 2,512 more runs to become the highest run-scorer in Test cricket history.
A Special Moment on Air
In a touching moment, Ricky Ponting, who was on commentary duty at the time, congratulated Root live on air as he passed him on the all-time list. The mutual respect between the two cricketing greats was clear, adding an emotional element to an already historic achievement.
Root’s Dominant Knock Against India
Root’s innings didn’t just make headlines for record-breaking stats—it was also a masterclass in Test batting. He played with calm authority and elegance, reaching 150 runs before being stumped by Ravindra Jadeja. His contribution played a key role in anchoring England’s innings in a high-pressure match.
Can Root Catch Tendulkar?
With age on his side and form still strong, many believe Joe Root has a real chance to surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record. While 2,500+ runs is a significant gap, Root’s consistency, fitness, and hunger for runs suggest that this legendary chase is far from impossible.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
Joe Root’s latest feat cements his place as one of the greatest batters in Test history. As he continues his cricketing journey, fans around the world will be watching closely to see if he can achieve the seemingly unthinkable—breaking Tendulkar’s iconic record.
