Has Root Surpassed Ponting? Hits 121 Not Out as England Takes Lead Over India
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On July 25, Joe Root achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring 121 not out, surpassing Ricky Ponting in the all-time Test run-scorers' list. This achievement propelled England into a commanding position against India in the fourth Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test. Root's performance not only showcased his skill but also highlighted England's dominance in the match.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Root scored 121 not out, surpassing Ponting in all-time Test run-scorers.
- England leads by 75 runs after day three.
- Partnerships proved vital, with Root and Stokes adding crucial runs.
- India's bowling faced challenges with injuries affecting key players.
- Root's achievement adds to his legacy in cricket.
Manchester, July 25 (NationPress) Demonstrating the finesse of a master craftsman and the poise of a seasoned performer, Joe Root surpassed Jacques Kallis, Rahul Dravid, and Ricky Ponting to secure the second position in the all-time Test run-scorers' rankings by scoring 121 not out as England seized a crucial lead against India on the third day of the fourth Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Old Trafford on Friday.
With his 38th Test century achieved off 178 deliveries, Root now stands equal with Kumar Sangakkara, with only Tendulkar, Ponting, and Kallis ahead of him in the all-time century rankings in Tests. During Root's ascent to new heights, England accumulated 101 runs for the loss of two wickets, reaching 433/4 in 102 overs and establishing a 75-run lead over a faltering India.
It was not an ideal scenario for India as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj had to leave the field at intervals due to ankle issues, although Bumrah did return. Following the lunch break, Washington Sundar struck as Ollie Pope attempted to guide the spinner through the leg-side but ended up edging behind, with KL Rahul taking a fine catch at slip to dismiss Pope for 71, thus concluding his 144-run partnership with Root.
India's choice to hold off on taking the new ball and continue with Washington Sundar paid dividends when he managed to get the ball to drift away from Harry Brook, leaving him stranded as substitute keeper Dhruv Jurel executed the stumping to dismiss Brook for a mere three runs. Boundaries from Root and Ben Stokes (36 not out) helped England finally secure the vital lead.
After an extended stay in the 90s, Root's first ball of the 96th over from Kamboj clipped down the leg-side, leading to his second century of the series and his 12th against India. He absorbed the enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, who chanted ‘ROOOOT’ around Old Trafford.
The crowd had another opportunity to celebrate in the 101st over when Root guided Anshul Kamboj for a single behind point, surpassing Ponting to become the second-highest all-time run-scorer in Tests. With the unbroken partnership between Root and Stokes currently at 84, England aims to extend their lead further and compound the challenges faced by India’s exhausted bowling attack.
Brief Scores: India 358 in 114.1 overs (B Sai Sudharsan 61; Ben Stokes 5-72) trail England 433/4 in 102 overs (Joe Root 121 not out, Ben Duckett 94; Washington Sundar 2-30, Anshul Kamboj 1-89) by 75 runs
Point of View
It's essential to appreciate the skill and dedication displayed by players like Joe Root. His achievements not only elevate his status within the sport but also contribute significantly to England's ongoing success. This match highlights the competitive spirit of cricket, and we look forward to seeing how both teams adapt in the remaining days of this exciting Test series.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What records did Joe Root break during the match?
Joe Root surpassed Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest all-time run-scorer in Tests and achieved his 38th Test century.
How did England perform on day three?
England accumulated 101 runs for the loss of two wickets, reaching 433/4 and establishing a 75-run lead over India.
What were the key performances from India?
B Sai Sudharsan scored 61 runs, and Ben Stokes took 5 wickets for 72 runs.
