In a remarkable feat, England’s prominent batsman Joe Root has surpassed Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar’s record to become the leading run-scorer in Test matches between India and England. This achievement came during the Test match held in Hyderabad on Thursday. Root, who previously captained the England team, needed only 10 runs to overtake Tendulkar’s tally and he achieved this milestone stylishly, scoring a boundary against Axar Patel during the 21st over of England’s innings.
Joe Root now stands at the top of the list for the most runs scored in India vs England Test matches, with a total of 2554*, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s 2535. Following them are Sunil Gavaskar with 2348 runs, Sir Alastair Cook with 2431 runs, and Virat Kohli who has amassed 1991 runs.
Before this series, Root had an impressive track record against India, scoring 2,526 runs in 25 matches, which included an outstanding average of 63.15. His performance against India is highlighted by nine centuries and 10 fifties. Root has shown his prowess particularly in Indian conditions, evidenced by his scores in previous tours, including a remarkable 218 in Chennai in 2021.
In contrast, Sachin Tendulkar, often referred to as the “Master Blaster”, had set the previous record with 2,535 runs in 32 matches against England, at an average of 51.73. Tendulkar’s record includes seven centuries and 13 half-centuries.
Additionally, Joe Root has made his mark in the World Test Championship (WTC) by becoming the first player to exceed 4000 runs in the tournament. He now has a total of 4005 runs from 48 Tests.
Root is now aiming to surpass another milestone, that of Ricky Ponting, who scored 2555 runs in 29 Tests against India. Root is intent on becoming the highest run-scorer in Test matches against India. The ongoing match against India saw England score 108 for 3 by lunchtime, after captain Ben Stokes opted to bat first.
England’s innings commenced positively, with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett building a 55-run stand for the first wicket within 11.5 overs. Crawley contributed 20 runs, while Duckett added 35. However, India made a significant comeback after introducing spinners in the ninth over, taking three wickets rapidly. Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were instrumental, with Ashwin dismissing both Crawley and Duckett, and Jadeja taking out Ollie Pope, who managed only 1 run from 11 balls.
Root’s achievement is not just a testament to his skill and consistency but also highlights the evolving nature of cricket rivalries and individual records. His ability to adapt to different conditions and maintain a high level of performance over a sustained period is commendable. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how much further Root can extend his record and whether he can surpass Ponting’s record against India.
The India-England cricket rivalry has always been one of the most anticipated in the sport, showcasing some of the greatest talents and memorable matches. Joe Root’s recent feat adds another remarkable chapter to this storied rivalry. As the series continues, cricket fans around the world will be keen to see how the competition unfolds and whether any other records are set or broken.
Root’s ascent to the top of this illustrious list is a significant milestone in his already distinguished career. His ability to consistently score runs against a formidable Indian bowling lineup, especially in challenging subcontinental conditions, speaks volumes about his technical proficiency and mental fortitude. His approach to batting, marked by patience, skillful shot selection, and an unwavering focus, has earned him plaudits from cricket experts and fans alike.
Root’s journey to surpassing Tendulkar’s record has been a blend of meticulous preparation and natural talent. His innings are characterized by an elegant blend of defense and aggression, making him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack. This achievement also underscores the evolution of modern cricket, where contemporary players are reaching and surpassing milestones set by the legends of the past, thereby elevating the standards of the game.
Furthermore, Root’s contribution to the England team goes beyond his runs. His leadership, experience, and presence in the dressing room have been invaluable, especially in mentoring young players. As a former captain, his insights and strategies have significantly influenced England’s approach to Test cricket.
In the broader context of Test cricket, Root’s record is a testament to the enduring appeal and relevance of the longest format of the game. His achievements reiterate that Test cricket remains a pinnacle of skill and endurance in the sport. As the game evolves, records like these inspire upcoming cricketers to aim for excellence in Test cricket, ensuring its legacy continues.
The ongoing Test match in Hyderabad is not just a contest between bat and ball but a narrative of cricket’s rich history and its evolving future. As Root continues to etch his name in cricket’s annals, his pursuit of surpassing Ricky Ponting’s record will be closely watched. His career trajectory continues to inspire aspiring cricketers, highlighting the importance of dedication, hard work, and a passion for the game.
In conclusion, Joe Root’s record-breaking performance in the India-England Test series is a remarkable achievement in the world of cricket. It is a reflection of his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the sport. As the series progresses, it will be exciting to see how Root continues to influence the game and whether he can set new benchmarks in this historic cricket rivalry.