Joe Root is making a powerful case as one of the greatest batters in Test cricket history. In his 157th Test match, Root overtook legends like Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in the format. With 13,409 runs to his name, only Sachin Tendulkar’s towering 15,921 remains ahead.
Root’s rise since turning 30 has been nothing short of remarkable. He celebrated the milestone with a double century against Sri Lanka in 2021 and followed it up with consistent performances, racking up 21 Test centuries in just 60 matches post-30. Since losing the England captaincy in 2022, he has averaged over 57 and scored 13 centuries in just 40 Tests—showing no signs of slowing down.
Will Root’s Form Hold Like Tendulkar’s?
If Root stays injury-free and maintains a conservative average of 80 runs per match, he could surpass Tendulkar’s record within the next 31 Tests—likely by the time he turns 37. England’s busy Test calendar makes this timeline feasible.
However, cricket history warns against assumptions. Tendulkar’s unmatched consistency and passion helped him power through injuries and decades of pressure. Root may appear unstoppable now, but even greats like Virat Kohli experienced extended form slumps.
Whether Root achieves the impossible will depend on not just skill and form, but also his mindset, fitness, and hunger in the years ahead. The record is within sight, but the journey promises to be long, testing, and filled with unknowns.
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