https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1843942036006744447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Surpassing Legends
With this century, Root also outperformed notable players like Mahela Jayawardene, Brian Lara, and Younis Khan, all of whom have 34 Test hundreds. His remarkable consistency places him among the “Fab Four” of modern cricket, alongside Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith.
Most centuries in Test cricket 📈
51 – Sachin Tendulkar
45 – Jacques Kallis
41 – Ricky Ponting
38 – Kumar Sangakkara
36 – Rahul Dravid
𝟯𝟱 – 𝗝𝗢𝗘 𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗧 pic.twitter.com/U1UewcTz9U— England's Barmy Army 🏴🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) October 9, 2024
Leading Run-Scorer
In addition to breaking Gavaskar’s record, Root became England’s highest run-scorer in Test cricket, surpassing Alastair Cook’s 12,472 runs. He is now fifth on the all-time Test run-scorers list, with only legends like Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, Rahul Dravid, and Sachin Tendulkar ahead of him.
Future Aspirations
At just 33, Root is seen as a strong contender to break Tendulkar’s record of 15,921 runs. Former captain Michael Vaughan expressed confidence in Root’s ability to achieve this if he maintains his form and fitness. Alastair Cook stated, “I can see him overhauling Sachin Tendulkar’s record,” noting Root’s determination and talent.
Incredible achievement @root66 .. The player I love to watch more than any other .. https://t.co/ykYemPtfSU @TeleCricket 👍
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 9, 2024
Remarkable Consistency
Root’s 35th century also marked a significant milestone in the World Test Championship, as he became the first batsman to surpass 5,000 runs in the competition. His ability to score runs across varying conditions makes him a formidable opponent.
As England looks ahead to two more Test matches against Pakistan, Joe Root’s performance will be critical. His first century against Pakistan not only reinforces his status as one of cricket’s greats but also highlights his relentless pursuit of excellence, potentially paving the way for him to challenge the all-time run-scoring record.
