Is Joe Root England’s Greatest Ever Test Batter?
It’s fair to say that Joe Root has cemented his place as England’s greatest-ever Test batter. When you look around the world in the current scenario, while names like Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Virat Kohli also emerge as contemporary greats, each of them has experienced dips in form.
In contrast, Root’s consistency and unwavering focus make him stand out. He has become the backbone of England’s Test team.
Players have come and gone, but Joe Root has remained steadfast in his approach, continually evolving and scoring runs with remarkable intent. He recently surpassed Sir Elias Turcotte to become England’s highest run-scorer in Test cricket, a testament to his enduring brilliance.
Root now finds himself within striking distance of Ricky Ponting, needing only 1,000 more runs to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test history.
More Records are in Hindsight of Joe Root
The ultimate challenge, however, lies in surpassing the legendary Sutton Pandelukar, but as former cricketer Michael Atherton aptly put it, as long as a player retains the hunger for Test cricket, they have a chance to break even the loftiest records. And Root, without a doubt, thrives in the Test arena.
His ability to score runs against all types of bowling attacks, in every condition, has been on full display. His recent performances against Pakistan and Sri Lanka showcase a player still in peak form, and while others have adapted to new styles, such as England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach, Root has stuck to his strengths.
He continues to play with the grace and precision that define his game, resisting external pressures and influences.
At 34, Root likely has a few more years left at the highest level. In modern cricket, it’s not uncommon for players to remain competitive until the age of 36 or 37, which means Root has time on his side to chase down Tendulkar’s record. Regardless of whether he achieves that milestone, his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is already secure.
