IND vs ENG 5th Test: Joe Root continues to redefine consistency in Test cricket, adding another page to his illustrious career during the ongoing India-England series. At 34, the prolific right-hander from Yorkshire has not only showcased class with the bat but also etched his name deeper into the record books.
In the recently concluded fourth Test at Old Trafford, Root hammered a brilliant 150, playing a pivotal role for the Ben Stokes-led England side. The knock saw him leap to second on the all-time list of highest run-scorers in Test history, a feat that solidifies his place among the greats.

But Root wasn't done just yet. In the fifth Test at The Oval, during a short yet impactful innings of 29 off 45 balls, laced with six crisp boundaries, he broke further ground. Crossing 22 runs in that innings took his tally of Test runs in England to 7217, nudging him past Indian maestro Sachin Tendulkar's 7126 runs scored in India. Root now trails only Ricky Ponting, who leads the list for most Test runs in a single country with 7578 runs in Australia.
What makes Root's achievements even more special is his dominance against India at home. He became the first player in history to breach the 2000-run mark in Tests against India in one country - a landmark no other batter has reached. His consistent run-scoring against one of the top bowling attacks in the world reflects both his adaptability and hunger.
However, his stay at the crease on Day 2 at The Oval was cut short by Mohammed Siraj, who trapped him LBW. Root did opt for a DRS review, but the technology upheld the on-field call.
Root's achievements in this series are a testament to his remarkable longevity and unwavering form. As England's batting pillar, he continues to pile on the runs - not just for records, but for the pure joy of batting. For Indian fans and neutral observers alike, watching Joe Root in full flow remains a masterclass in Test match batting.