Joe Root Sets Record as Highest English Test Run-Scorer

Joe Root, the prolific England batsman, has become the highest run-scorer in English Test cricket history. This landmark achievement was reached during England’s Test series against Pakistan at the Multan Cricket Stadium, where Root surpassed Sir Alastair Cook‘s previous record of 12,472 runs with a four off Aamer Jamal, elevating his tally to 12,473 runs.

As he accomplished this remarkable feat, Root did not exhibit any exuberant celebrations. Instead, he acknowledged the moment with a gentle wave of his hand and his bat towards his teammates and coaching staff, who applauded from the dressing room balcony.

The former England captain began the series needing 70 runs to overtake Cook’s record. In a previous achievement, he had already surpassed Cook’s record for the most Test centuries by an English player. Root’s current position at 12,473 runs also places him fifth on the all-time world list, trailing behind legends like Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, and Sachin Tendulkar.

Sir Alastair Cook, speaking on BBC‘s Test Match Special (TMS), expressed admiration for Root’s achievements and potential. “I can see him overhauling Sachin Tendulkar’s record,” Cook remarked, noting the challenges of captaincy that Root has overcome, especially with Ben Stokes assuming the role, allowing Root to focus on his batting.

Despite the weight of this milestone, Root has downplayed its significance, focusing instead on the broader journey of his cricketing career. In an earlier statement, he mentioned, “I see myself playing Test cricket for a lot longer. It’s not like I’m going to get to a certain mark or a number and say, ‘Right, I’m done now.’ I just want to keep enjoying the game, keep playing.”

Root’s batting had a critical role in England’s innings, as he partnered with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett for century-plus stands, easing the team’s pressure after Pakistan’s initial batting dominance in the Test.

Commentators and cricket analysts continue to debate whether Root could surpass Tendulkar’s world record of 15,921 runs. Cook speculated, “I’d give Sachin 51% and Root 49%. But I would be betting on Root to do it,” highlighting the unpredictability and competitive nature of cricket.

Root’s focus remains steadfast on contributing to England’s successes in upcoming matches, with a particular eye on the controversies and challenges of the Ashes series, as he continues to enhance his legendary status in the cricketing realm.