Over the past four years, Joe Root has amassed 21 centuries and is steadily closing in on Sachin Tendulkar’s longstanding record for the most Test runs.
Joe Root Joins Cricket’s Elite with Stellar Test Performances
Joe Root has enjoyed an extraordinary four years in Test cricket, scoring 21 centuries and closing in on Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs. During Day 3 of the Manchester Test, Root’s commanding 150 helped him surpass legends like Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting, making him the second-highest run-scorer in Test history with over 13,000 runs.
Root’s innings played a crucial role in England’s strong position in the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, as the hosts extended their lead to 186 by stumps. Former India batsman Sanjay Manjrekar praised Root’s consistency, placing him alongside greats like Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Brian Lara. Manjrekar highlighted a shared “quality of greatness” among these legends—the ability to score a century almost at will under favorable batting conditions. This remarkable trait, he noted on X (formerly Twitter), is what sets players like Root apart in the world of cricket.
One quality of greatness I have seen from close quarters is to get a Test 100 almost at will in good batting conditions. Gavaskar had it. Sachin had it. Lara too & yes, Joe Root! 👏👏👏
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) July 25, 2025
Joe Root scored a brilliant 150 runs before being dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, facing 248 balls and hitting 14 boundaries. His composed innings was pivotal in England’s strong position. Root also forged two crucial 100-run partnerships with teammates Ollie Pope and Ben Stokes, showcasing his ability to build and sustain momentum.
Lesson for all youngsters
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif praised Joe Root’s consistent performances, highlighting his dedication to Test cricket as an example for young players. “Joe Root keeps scoring runs. His commitment to Test cricket should be a lesson for all youngsters playing the game,” Kaif said, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and focus in the longest format.
Joe Root keeps scoring runs. His commitment to test cricket should be a lesson for all youngsters playing the game.
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 25, 2025
Joe Root notched his second century of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, following his hundred at Lord’s, bringing his tally against India to 12 Test centuries. This achievement makes him the leading century-maker against India, surpassing Steve Smith’s previous record of 11.
In the Manchester Test, England closed Day 3 at 544/7, extending their lead to 186 runs. Ben Stokes and Liam Dawson remained unbeaten on 77 and 21, respectively. Earlier, India were bowled out for 358 in their first innings, with Stokes claiming his first five-wicket haul in eight years, playing a crucial role in England’s dominant position.