England’s Joe Root has officially risen to second place on the all‑time Test run‑scorers list after surpassing legends such as Ricky Ponting, Rahul Dravid, and Jacques Kallis with a commanding innings of 150 in the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford.
Historic Century and New Milestones
Root’s innings of 150 was his 38th Test century, a masterclass that not only propelled him past Ponting’s total of 13,378 runs but also equalled Kumar Sangakkara’s record for most Test hundreds. With this knock, he moved ahead of Rahul Dravid (13,288) and Jacques Kallis (13,289), securing second place behind only Sachin Tendulkar’s towering 15,921 runs.
Context from Day Three at Old Trafford
On day three of the fourth Test, Root’s performance guided England to an imposing first-innings total of 544‑7, leaving India trailing by 186 runs at stumps. England dominated the session, thanks largely to Root’s composed batting. Meanwhile, Ben Stokes retired hurt with cramp on 66 but returned later to finish unbeaten on 77, supporting the team’s strong position.
What This Means for Root’s Legacy
This landmark innings solidified Root’s status as not only England’s leading Test run‑scorer, but now also the second‑highest scorer in Test history overall. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has predicted that Root could surpass Tendulkar’s record by 2027 if he continues his current trajectory and fitness allows.
England’s Position in the Series
England’s Joe Root heroics has put England firmly in control of the fourth Test at Manchester, with just two days left to secure a series-clinching victory in the five-match Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy. His innings not only contributed to the run chart but also helped create a commanding position from which England are strong favourites to seal the series.
Summary
In summary, Joe Root’s magnificent 150 at Old Trafford:
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Surpassed Ricky Ponting’s tally and overtook Dravid and Kallis
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Took over second spot in Test cricket’s all‑time run‑scorers list
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Marked his 38th Test hundred and tied Sangakkara’s record
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Strengthened England’s control over the fourth Test
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Rekindled discussion about his odds of chasing down Tendulkar’s record by 2027
Root’s rise is a testament to consistency, longevity, and class—cementing his place among cricket’s elite.
