Joe Root Sets Record as England’s All-Time Leading Test Run-Scorer

Joe Root has surpassed Sir Alastair Cook to become England‘s all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket. Root achieved this milestone during England’s first Test against Pakistan in Multan, significantly boosting their position in the match with his unbeaten 176-run performance.

Root’s century on day three took him past Cook’s record of 12,472 career Test runs. During this remarkable innings, he expressed pride in his achievement but maintained a focus on future contributions. “I’m obviously proud, but still feel there’s plenty more left to do,” he stated.

The 33-year-old batsman is now the fifth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history, following legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, and Rahul Dravid. Root has accumulated 12,578 runs, putting him approximately 3,343 runs behind Tendulkar, the all-time leading Test run-scorer.

Former England captain Michael Atherton acknowledged Root’s potential to reach Tendulkar’s record, indicating that the next few years would be crucial. “He has a chance, obviously,” Atherton noted, highlighting advances in sports training and diet that have extended players’ careers. “It comes down to desire. As long as that desire and love for the game are not undimmed, he has a great chance.”

Nasser Hussain, another former England captain and current Sky Sports Cricket pundit, praised Root for his phenomenal consistency and character. “He ticks every box. He’s got greatness, he loves the game, he’s a seriously nice lad,” Hussain remarked, stressing the magnitude of Root’s achievements and comparing him to other cricketing legends.

Despite the accolade, Root admitted to feeling fatigued after his innings and did not speak to media immediately post-game, later reflecting on his performance during an interview with the ECB at the team hotel. His focus remains firmly on future matches, highlighting a mindset rooted in continuous improvement and ambition.

England cricket now looks forward to Root leading the charge in forthcoming Tests, as they aim to build on their positive momentum against Pakistan. Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports Cricket as England continues their Test series, with Root expected to play a central role in the team’s strategy.