Joe Root reached his 38th Test century at Old Trafford on Day 3 of the match against India. His innings was marked by control, composure, and technical proficiency. With this achievement, Root continued his ascent among the top run-scorers in Test cricket history, reinforcing his status as one of the most consistent batters in the game.
Setting the Stage: England vs India at Old Trafford
This was the fourth Test in a closely contested five-match series between England and India. England had a 2–1 advantage going into the match and had the chance to secure the series. The surface at Old Trafford presented challenges for batters, with variable bounce, movement off the seam, and deliveries landing on a testing length. Scoring required careful shot selection and sound technique. With a series win at stake and facing a determined Indian bowling unit, the match carried significant pressure. Joe Root, known for his consistent performances under such circumstances, contributed effectively once again.
Joe Root’s 38th Test Century at Old Trafford
Joe Root completed his 38th Test century on the first delivery of the 96th over. Facing debutant Anshul Kamboj, he played a controlled shot to the fine-leg boundary to reach the landmark. Root used his wrists to guide the ball, a characteristic technique that reflects his approach to batting. The shot was simple and effective. The crowd at Old Trafford responded with cheers. Root removed his helmet and acknowledged the spectators’ applause with a nod. His reaction remained measured and in keeping with his typical style of celebration.
Breaking Down the Innings
Joe Root exhibited sound technique throughout the innings, managing short deliveries and executing off-side strokes with precision. His balance at the crease and consistent head position contributed to his control. Despite variable bounce from the surface, Root adjusted effectively. He positioned himself early, maintained focus on the ball, and applied soft hands alongside efficient footwork to minimise risk. Root maintained momentum in the innings through consistent strike rotation. He frequently took singles, converted runs where possible, and capitalised on loose deliveries with well-timed boundary shots.
Root vs India: A Record of Consistency
Joe Root’s twelfth Test century against India moves him ahead of Steve Smith (11), giving him the most centuries against the Indian team by any batter. This achievement reflects sustained performance against a competitive bowling attack. Root has scored runs in a range of conditions, including matches held in Chennai, Lord’s, and Manchester. His ability to adjust to both spin-friendly and pace-oriented pitches has contributed to his consistent output.
A Record-Breaking Journey
Joe Root’s innings against India saw him move past Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting in the all-time Test run-scorers list. He now ranks second, behind only Sachin Tendulkar. Root surpassed Dravid at 30, followed by Kallis on the next ball, and overtook Ponting upon reaching 120. While Tendulkar’s total of 15,921 runs is still some way off, Root’s form suggests he remains within reach.
Root’s Form Since 2021
Since the start of 2021, Root has scored 21 Test centuries, more than any other batter during this period. The next highest totals belong to Steven Smith and Kane Williamson, who have 10 each. Root, once seen as the least dominant of the so-called Fab Four, currently leads the group in both numbers and impact. He has scored in various environments—whether facing spin, pace, or adverse pitch conditions—demonstrating technical adaptability and reliability.
Performance at Old Trafford
Root became the first player to score more than 1,000 Test runs at Old Trafford, setting a unique ground record. His repeated success here has made Old Trafford one of his most productive grounds. Root’s innings at the venue include multiple half-centuries and centuries, contributing consistently over time.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
