Root Climbs to Second on All-Time Test List as England Dominate India

Joe Root ascended to second place on the all-time list of Test run-scorers after compiling a masterful 38th century on Friday, as England pursued a series-clinching victory against India at Old Trafford.

Ben Stokes’ side, holding a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, finished the third day of the fourth Test in a commanding position at 544 for 7 — 186 runs ahead of a weary Indian outfit on first innings.

Root’s imperious knock of exactly 150 propelled his career tally to 13,409 Test runs, leaving him behind only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who amassed 15,921. The 34-year-old Englishman surpassed Ricky Ponting’s mark of 13,378 during the innings.

England’s First Innings Progression (Day 3)

Root’s Record-Breaking Innings

Root’s innings was not just about weight of runs, but also historical significance:

• He overtook Rahul Dravid and Jacques Kallis early in the day.
• Moved past Ricky Ponting to claim second on the all-time Test run-scorer list.
• Equalled Kumar Sangakkara’s 38 Test centuries, placing him joint fourth in terms of hundreds scored in the format.

“Magnificent from Root, this is a great moment in history,” said former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, as fans in Manchester gave the Yorkshireman a standing ovation.

“There’s absolutely no reason why he won’t go past Tendulkar,” Ponting added.

Former England captain Michael Atherton was equally effusive:

“It has been a privilege to watch him knock off those milestones… and to see his career unfold.”

England’s Batting Resilience

England began the day at 225-2, following an aggressive second-day stand between Crawley and Duckett. Pope resumed on 20* with Root on 11*. The latter survived an early scare when an lbw review from India was unsuccessful and then narrowly avoided a run-out shortly after.

Pope and Root formed a pivotal 144-run third-wicket partnership, until Pope edged a drifting delivery from Washington Sundar to KL Rahul at slip. Root was characteristically composed and raised his century in 178 balls, guiding the innings with precision and class.

His 150 came shortly before he was undone by a sharply turning delivery from Ravindra Jadeja, resulting in a sharp stumping by Dhruv Jurel.

Stokes’ Vital Contribution

Captain Ben Stokes played a crucial supporting role, finishing the day unbeaten on 77. He momentarily retired hurt with cramp but returned to resume his innings, anchoring England’s middle and lower order.

Stokes’ cover-drive off Jasprit Bumrah upon his return signalled his continued intent. His contribution was pivotal in ensuring that India could not capitalise after taking quick wickets in the middle session.

“He’s an annoyingly good bloke,” said vice-captain Ollie Pope, praising Root’s character and influence.
“His hunger for it is awesome. The way he is with the fans and as a role model for the next generation is inspiring.”

India Struggle with the Ball

India’s bowlers toiled throughout the day. With Nitish Kumar Reddy injured, the pace attack of Bumrah and Siraj lacked consistency, and it was spin that eventually offered some respite.

Washington Sundar was the pick of the bowlers, removing Pope and Brook in quick succession to momentarily lift Indian hopes. However, their inability to break the Root-Stokes partnership proved costly.

“There’s not a lot of weaknesses in his game. That’s why he’s scored over 13,000 runs,” said India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel, admiring Root’s clinical batting.

Day’s Summary

Looking Ahead

With a sizeable lead and India facing deteriorating pitch conditions — highlighted by the low bounce that bowled Chris Woakes — England are well-positioned to press for victory and seal the series.

As Root continues to chase down Tendulkar’s towering record, England will hope his form inspires a comprehensive finish to a hard-fought series.