“A master of the modern era – Joe Root continues rewriting Test cricket’s history books.”
Joe Root etched his name further into cricketing history on day three of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, overtaking Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run scorer in Test cricket. His unbeaten 121 not only lifted him above the Australian legend but also helped England establish a 75-run lead over India, with the hosts sitting comfortably at 433-4 at tea on Friday.
Earlier in the day, Root surpassed Jacques Kallis to move into third place and notched his 104th Test score of fifty or more—trailing only India’s Sachin Tendulkar in that regard. Alongside him, Ollie Pope added a valuable 71, guiding England to a commanding 332-2 by lunch.
India found a brief opening in the afternoon, with Washington Sundar removing Pope and Harry Brook in quick succession. But Root held firm, displaying his usual calm and control despite a couple of early scares—a leg-before shout and a near run-out while on 22.
His 38th Test century marked another chapter in a glittering career, as he seamlessly guided England past India’s first innings total. Ben Stokes provided solid support, punishing loose deliveries to finish the session unbeaten on 36, with England firmly in control and eyeing a series-clinching win with a game to spare.