On October 9, 2024, Joe Root etched his name in cricket history. During the first Test against Pakistan in Multan, Root surpassed Alastair Cook to become England’s all-time leading run-scorer in Test matches.
This remarkable achievement highlights Root’s consistency, skill, and dedication to the game over his 12-year Test career.
Breaking Down The Record
Root overtook Cook’s tally of 12,472 runs on day three of the Test. He reached the milestone when his score hit 71, continuing to bat impressively throughout the day.
By stumps, Root had extended his new record significantly:
| Statistic | Joe Root | Alastair Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Total Test Runs | 12,664 | 12,472 |
| Innings Taken | 268 | 291 |
| Highest Score | 262 | 294 |
| Test Average | 51.47 | 45.35 |
| Centuries | 35 | 33 |
England vs Pakistan 1st Test: A Record-Breaking Match For Joe Root
Joe Root has already become the leading test scorer for England on day 3 vs Pakistan. Day 4 became more interesting with new records for Joe Root and England.
Joe Root smashed a double hundred and got his all-time highest score in Test cricket. He got out at 262 runs, beating his previous record of 254 runs against the same team in 2016.
Apart from that, some new world records also emerged on the fourth day:
- 4th Highest partnership in a Test inning for any wicket: 454 runs by Joe Root and Harry Brooks
- Highest partnership for 4th wicket in a Test inning:454 runs by Joe Root and Harry Brooks
- Highest individual Test score by Joe Root: 262 runs
- 6th English player to hit a triple hundred in a Test inning for England: Harry Brooks (317)
- 2nd fastest triple century in a Test inning (by balls faced): 310 balls (Harry Brooks)
- 4th highest Test score by Team: 823/7 England (Declared)
*These stats are taken at the time of writing.
Root’s Journey To The Top
Root made his Test debut against India in 2012, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the England lineup. His first Test century came against New Zealand at Headingley in 2013, marking the start of a prolific run-scoring career.
Key milestones in Root’s Test career:
- Debut: December 2012 vs India
- First century: May 2013 vs New Zealand
- Highest score: 262 vs Pakistan (2024, Current Match)
- 100th Test match: February 2021 vs India
- Became England’s leading run-scorer: October 2024 vs Pakistan
A Consistent Performer
Root’s consistency sets him apart from many of his peers. He has scored over 1,000 Test runs in a calendar year five times, a feat only bettered by Sachin Tendulkar (six times). 2024 has been another stellar year for Root, with 1,162 runs and 5 centuries so far.
Joe Root In The Global Rankings
With this achievement, Root climbs to fifth place in the all-time Test run-scorers list:
| Rank | Player | Country | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar | India | 15,921 |
| 2 | Ricky Ponting | Australia | 13,378 |
| 3 | Jacques Kallis | South Africa | 13,289 |
| 4 | Rahul Dravid | India | 13,288 |
| 5 | Joe Root | England | 12,664 |
Note: The Stats are updated after Joe Root’s dismissal on the 4th Day vs Pakistan.
Root’s Batting Evolution
Over the years, Root has refined his technique and expanded his shot range. His ability to score all around the wicket makes him a challenging batsman for bowlers to contain. Root’s proficiency against spin bowling has been particularly crucial in Asian conditions.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain praised Root’s adaptability: “Throughout those 12 years he has played with a smile on his face, which is not easy. There was an air of inevitability about Root completing this achievement today.”
A Century To Celebrate
Root didn’t stop at breaking the run-scoring record. He went on to score his 35th Test century, finishing the day unbeaten on 176.
This innings showcased Root’s full range of skills:
- Patience early in his innings
- Calculated aggression against the spinners
- Excellent running between the wickets
- Ability to bat through tough periods
Root’s century tally now surpasses greats like Sunil Gavaskar, Brian Lara, and Mahela Jayawardene (all with 34 centuries).
Overseas Success
Root’s record away from home is equally impressive. This was his 14th overseas century, tying Ken Barrington for the second-most by an England player. Only Alastair Cook (18) has more centuries abroad for England in Test cricket.
Root has now scored a Test hundred in every country where he has played four or more matches, with one notable exception – Australia.
Partnerships And Team Impact
Root’s ability to build big partnerships has been crucial to England’s success. In this innings alone, he was involved in three 100+ run stands. This marks the second time in his career that Root has been part of three-century partnerships in a single innings.
The current 454-run partnership between Root and Harry Brook is also the highest for England for any wicket on Pakistan soil.
Praise From Teammates And Opponents
England Test captain Ben Stokes lauded Root’s selflessness: “The amount of times he has won us the game off the bat… He always puts the team first and the fact that he has got so many runs is just a bonus for us.”
Even opponents recognize Root’s class. Pakistan captain Babar Azam said, “Joe Root is a modern great. His consistency and adaptability make him a tough batsman to bowl to in all conditions.”
Looking Ahead
At 33 years old, Root still has several years of top-level cricket ahead of him. He has a realistic chance of becoming only the second player after Sachin Tendulkar to score 15,000 Test runs.
Cricket commentator Michael Atherton believes Root can aim even higher: “He has a great chance to surpass Tendulkar’s Test record. His consistency and fitness levels suggest he can play for many more years.”
Conclusion: Joe Root Surpasses Sir Alistair Cook To Become The Leading Test Scorer For England
Throughout his career, Root has been known for his sportsmanship and positive attitude. He plays the game with a smile and has earned respect from fans and players worldwide.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer summed up the national sentiment: “This is a fantastic achievement from an outstanding cricketer who just gets better and better.”
As Joe Root continues to break records and inspire the next generation of cricketers, his place in the pantheon of England’s greatest players is secure. His journey from a young debutant to England’s all-time leading run-scorer is a testament to his talent, hard work, and love for the game.
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