
Joe Root has added another historic chapter to his remarkable career by overtaking Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history. Root’s majestic 150-run knock at Old Trafford on Day 3 of the fourth Test against India headlined the day’s play. The innings not only anchored England’s total but also reflected his enduring brilliance and class.
Walking in at 197/2 after a strong platform was laid by England’s top order, Root displayed calmness and control across two days. With this innings, he surged past Rahul Dravid (13,288), Jacques Kallis (13,289), and Ricky Ponting (13,378) — climbing from fifth to second on the all-time Test runs leaderboard.
His latest century, the 38th of his career, now puts him level with Kumar Sangakkara in terms of most centuries in the format. Only Ponting (41), Kallis (45), and Sachin Tendulkar (51) are ahead.
Former England batter Jonathan Trott, speaking on JioHotstar, praised Root’s evolved and balanced approach at the crease:“Joe Root’s method is just so solid — you don’t see him shift gears dramatically,” said Trott. “but he’s set that aside now. He’s found a balanced approach, maybe carried over a few elements from that expansive phase, but overall, he sticks to what works best for him.”
Trott also highlighted how Root’s temperament allowed him to dominate when the opposition wasn’t probing enough:“When the opposition — like India today — aren’tchallenging enough, Root digs in, takes guard, and mentally decides to bat through the day. He forces you to produce a top-quality delivery to dismiss him — and India simply couldn’t do that today. Another 150 to his name, and as I said earlier, he’s mastering his craft more with every knock.”
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