As the highly anticipated India vs England Test series kicks off at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on January 25, all eyes are on seasoned batter Joe Root. The 33-year-old is poised on the brink of breaking a monumental record, requiring just 10 runs to surpass the legendary Sachin Tendulkar as the leading run-getter in India vs England Test matches.
Tendulkar’s Legacy
Sachin Tendulkar currently holds the prestigious title, amassing 2,535 runs in 32 matches at an impressive average of 51.73. His remarkable feat includes seven centuries and 13 half-centuries in Test matches against England. In contrast, Joe Root boasts 2,526 runs from 25 matches against India, showcasing a commendable average of 63.15, with nine centuries and 10 half-centuries.
The Ranks of Greatness
The list of batters with the most runs in India vs England Test matches features former India captain Sunil Gavaskar in third place, with 2,483 runs in 38 matches at an average of 38.20. Following closely is former England skipper Alastair Cook, accumulating 2,431 runs in 30 Test matches against India at an average of 47.66.
Kohli’s Presence in the Elite
Despite missing the first two Tests due to personal reasons, Virat Kohli secures the fifth spot in this illustrious list. The 35-year-old maestro has amassed 1,991 runs from 28 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 42.36, adorned with five centuries and nine half-centuries.
Joe Root’s Test Odyssey in India
Stellar Performances
Delving into Joe Root’s track record in Tests in India unveils a commendable journey. Across 10 matches, he has accumulated 952 runs at an average of 50.10, showcasing his prowess with the bat. Notably, during the 2016 tour, Root’s standout performances included a remarkable 218 in Chennai, contributing to a series of notable scores—124 in Rajkot, 53 in Visakhapatnam, 78 in Mohali, 77 in Mumbai, and 88 in Chennai.
The Captaincy Stint
Root captained the team during the 2021 tour, amassing 368 runs at an average of 46. The tour commenced on a high note with a brilliant 218 in Chennai, yet momentum dwindled, resulting in a highest score of 40 in the subsequent three matches.
Root’s All-Round Brilliance
Bowling Prowess
Beyond his batting exploits, Root showcased his bowling brilliance in the Day-Night Test in Ahmedabad during the 2021 tour. He registered incredible figures of 5/8 in India’s first innings, although the hosts ultimately secured victory by 10 wickets in the low-scoring encounter.
In conclusion, Joe Root stands at the cusp of history, poised to etch his name above cricketing legends in the India vs England Test series. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the unfolding drama, Root’s pursuit of breaking the Sachin Tendulkar record adds an extra layer of excitement to this thrilling encounter.
You can also check out Top 5 Contenders to Dominate the Batting Charts in IND vs ENG Test Series.
Sports Beats India is a website that covers all the latest sports news from India. We provide comprehensive coverage of all the major sports including cricket, football, hockey, tennis and more. We also have a dedicated team of writers who provide expert analysis and opinion on all the major sporting events taking place in India.
