In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Joe Root has surpassed Alastair Cook to become England's leading run-scorer in Test cricket. Achieving his 35th Test century during the match against Pakistan in Multan, Root reached this milestone with a sublime on-driven four, bringing his total to 12,473 runs.
Root's achievement comes after a stellar run since the beginning of 2021, where he has accumulated 4,755 runs at an impressive average of 57.9. This period includes 18 centuries, showcasing his consistency and ability to perform at the highest level. His return to the top of the batting rankings for the ninth time in July further emphasizes his dominance in the sport.
Despite the accolades, Root remains modest, often shying away from the spotlight. His recent performances, particularly under the leadership of Ben Stokes, highlight a renewed focus on personal excellence and a team-oriented approach. This evolution in his game has allowed him to unlock new levels of performance, especially against spin bowlers.
As Root continues to defy age and expectations, the cricketing world anticipates further milestones. With aspirations to reclaim the Ashes and potentially challenge Sachin Tendulkar's world record of 15,921 Test runs, Root's journey is far from over. His love for the game, combined with his relentless drive to improve, suggests that more historic moments await.