Joe Root extended his remarkable form by notching up his 39th Test century on Day 4 of the fifth Test against India, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara (38) to move into fourth place on the list of most Test centuries. Root and Brook built a commanding 195-run stand for the fourth wicket, piling pressure on India’s bowlers.
This was Root’s third century in the fourth innings of a Test match, highlighting his consistency under pressure. He reached the landmark in the third session with a couple of runs off Akash Deep. The moment was made even more special with his parents in the crowd and the entire stadium rising to applaud his brilliance.
Root is now the second-highest run-scorer in Test history. In a touching gesture, the former England skipper paid tribute to the late Graham Thorpe by wearing his band after reaching the milestone. Coming in early after Duckett’s dismissal, Root made up for his first-innings failure with a calm, match-defining knock to guide England toward victory.
You can watch the video here:
The headband straight on ❤️
"England's present No. 4 will never forget England's previous No. 4, that meant so much to him."
🤝 @IGcom pic.twitter.com/MnPzz4vQmQ
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 3, 2025
Root reached his half-century during the second session, playing a supporting role while Harry Brook dominated the Indian bowling attack following a reprieve on 19. After Brook was eventually dismissed for 111, Root stepped up and took charge of the chase.
He completed his century in the final session, bringing England within touching distance of victory. His previous two fourth-innings centuries have both resulted in wins for England, and now he has once again guided his team to the brink of successfully chasing a target exceeding 370 runs.
Joe Root shared a match-turning 195-run stand with Harry Brook to put England in control
Former England captain Joe Root combined with Harry Brook for a fluent 195-run stand that revived England’s hopes in the match. The duo came together after Ollie Pope was trapped LBW by Mohammed Siraj for 27, leaving England at 106/3 and still needing 268 runs for victory.
Brook’s aggressive yet measured counter-attack, paired with Root’s steady innings, brought England within reach of a remarkable win. Although Brook was eventually dismissed for 111 by Akash Deep, his knock came after a lifeline on 19, when Siraj dropped a catch at fine leg.
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