Joe Root Crosses 13,000 Test Runs: A Modern-Day Batting Legend
Joe Root has once again written his name into cricket history by breaking the 13,000-run mark in Tests. Root met the goal in the current Test series which adds further proof to his status as an elite Test batter in the present day.
🏏 Root’s Rise to Greatness
In 2012, Root played his first Test against India and has since earned a key position in England’s batting group. Admired for his classic batting skills, strong mind and love for runs, Root has guided England both when they faced tough situations and enjoyed triumphs — he was Test captain from 2017 to 2022.
His strongest trait is being reliable on overseas pitches, while other players usually struggle more there. Throughout many seasons and matches and with significant match-winning feats in tricky conditions, Root has been a trustworthy scorer for England.
📊 Stat Highlight:
As of now, Root has scored over 13006 Test runs in just 153 matches, averaging above 50, with 36 centuries.🏆 Where Does Joe Root Stand in Test History?
With this achievement, Joe Root becomes only the third player in history to cross the 13,000-run mark in Test cricket, after legends:
- Sachin Tendulkar – 15,921 runs
- Ricky Ponting – 13,378 runs
- Jacques Kallis – 13,289 runs
Root is now England’s all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket, surpassing previous greats like Alastair Cook and Graham Gooch.
👉 Read more about Top 10 Test Run Scorers in Cricket
🔍 Analysis: What Makes Root Special?
Root’s ability to adapt across continents, remain composed under pressure, and innovate when needed makes him a unique blend of classic and contemporary.
- Against spin: He’s one of the best non-subcontinental players.
- In England: A rock in seaming conditions.
- Abroad: Has delivered match-winning knocks in Australia, India, and Sri Lanka.
Read about more cricket legends in our Sports section.
🇬🇧 Root and the Fab Four
Root has often been compared to the other “Fab Four” members:
- Virat Kohli
- Kane Williamson
- Steve Smith
While each has unique strengths, Root’s numbers now give him an edge in terms of longevity and consistency.
📌 Related: Check out our post on Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement
🙌 Final Thoughts
Root’s great Test run tally is a sign of how long-lasting modern players have made Test cricket. Root is still the main source of strength as England looks towards future Test cricket.
No matter if he passes Sachin’s record, Joe Root has proven himself to be one of the greatest Test batters.
