Joe Root Breaks Don Bradman’s 79-Year-Old World Record in Test Cricket
Joe Root, the stalwart of English cricket, created history at Old Trafford Cricket Stadium, Manchester, on July 24, 2025. His outstanding performance in the fourth Test of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India saw him surpass cricket legends Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history. Root’s remarkable feat was further embellished by his 38th Test century, marking another milestone in an extraordinary career.
At 34 years of age, Root continues to demonstrate exemplary consistency and class, having notched his second consecutive century. His previous century came during the first innings of the third Test at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. This back-to-back success only reaffirms Root’s position as one of the finest batsmen in the history of Test cricket.
Root Shatters Don Bradman’s Historic Record
The most spectacular aspect of Root’s innings at Old Trafford was that it marked his ninth Test century against India at home a record-breaking achievement. In doing so, Root became the first player ever to score nine centuries against the same opponent on home soil. This monumental feat broke the longstanding record held by cricketing legend Don Bradman, who scored eight centuries against England in Australia between 1928 and 1946.
Root’s domination over India at home also ranks as the best performance by any player on home turf against the Asian cricketing powerhouse. His nine centuries against India surpass any other player’s achievements at home versus India, and stand second only to Bradman’s eight centuries on Australian soil against England.
Most Test Centuries at Home Against One Opponent
Root’s run tally at home is impressive across all dimensions. His 23 Test centuries scored on English soil tie him with Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Ricky Ponting (Australia), and Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) for the most centuries by a player in one country. This elite group underscores Root’s consistency and adaptability on familiar grounds.
Specifically against India, Root has amassed 12 Test centuries the highest by any player against India in Test history. This feat places him jointly third in the all-time list for the most centuries scored against a single opponent, alongside England’s John Hobbs (12 centuries vs Australia) and Australia’s Steve Smith (12 centuries vs England). Only Bradman (19 centuries vs England) and Sunil Gavaskar (13 centuries vs West Indies) rank higher in this category.
Joe Root’s Impact on the World Test Championship
In addition to his personal records, Root has reached a unique milestone in the World Test Championship (WTC). He is the first cricketer ever to score 20 centuries in WTC matches since the tournament’s inception in 2019. The closest contenders trail far behind, with no player having more than 13 centuries. This achievement highlights Root’s match-winning potential and his ability to perform under pressure in the modern era’s premier Test cricket competition.
The Defining Innings: 150 Runs and Series Lead
Root’s innings of 150 runs against India was instrumental in setting up a commanding position for England in the Test match. The innings was eventually ended by India’s all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, but Root’s contribution ensured that England had a lead approaching 200 runs. This performance puts England in a strong position to secure victory and clinch the series, a prestigious moment for the hosts.
Root’s Journey to Test Greatness
Joe Root’s journey from a promising young talent to one of the greatest Test batsmen has been marked by resilience, technique, and mental toughness. His ability to score runs consistently against the world’s top bowling attacks especially against India’s formidable pace and spin has earned him respect across the cricketing world.
Root’s adaptability is one of his key strengths. He seamlessly adjusts to different pitch conditions, whether the seaming wickets of England or the spinning tracks of the subcontinent. His mastery against both pace and spin makes him an all-round threat, contributing not just runs but also valuable experience to the England team.
Comparison with Cricket Legends
Breaking Don Bradman’s record, widely considered one of the most iconic records in cricket, is no small feat. Bradman’s dominance in the early 20th century set a benchmark many players have aspired to but few have approached. Root’s achievement places him firmly in the pantheon of cricketing greats.
Moreover, surpassing batting giants like Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting in the run charts is a testament to Root’s longevity and skill. Each of these legends brought unique qualities to the game, and Root’s consistency across different eras highlights his exceptional talent.
Significance for England Cricket and the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy
The ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series between England and India is a highly anticipated contest, celebrating two of cricket’s most influential figures James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. Root’s stellar performance has not only elevated his personal status but also significantly contributed to England’s prospects in the series.
A series win in this prestigious contest will add further prestige to England’s cricketing history and set the tone for future encounters between these two cricketing giants. Root’s leadership and batting prowess continue to inspire a new generation of cricketers in England and beyond.
Root’s Records and Their Place in Cricket History
- Second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history
- 38 Test centuries and joint-fourth most centuries overall
- Most centuries against India in Test cricket (12)
- First player with nine Test centuries against one opponent at home
- Most Test centuries in England (23, joint-most with Kallis, Ponting, Jayawardene)
- First to score 20 World Test Championship centuries
- These statistics underline Root’s influence on the game and his status as a modern-day cricketing legend.
Why Joe Root’s Record Matters to UAE and Middle East Cricket Fans
Cricket’s popularity in the UAE and the wider Middle East has grown exponentially, with the region hosting numerous international tournaments and nurturing a passionate fan base. Root’s historic feats provide inspiration and enhance the global appeal of Test cricket, which remains the pinnacle of the sport.
With many South Asian expatriates and cricket enthusiasts in the region, Root’s battles against India add an extra layer of excitement and relevance. Moreover, the UAE’s cricket infrastructure and growing role as a neutral venue for major cricketing events make such records particularly resonant with local fans.
Joe Root’s Legacy and the Future of Test Cricket
Joe Root’s historic achievements reaffirm the enduring allure of Test cricket in the modern sporting landscape. His ability to break records that stood for nearly eight decades is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the game.
As Root continues to add to his tally, he not only cements his legacy but also inspires future generations of cricketers worldwide. His story is one of perseverance, skill, and continuous evolution a blueprint for aspiring players in the UAE, Middle East, and beyond.
The 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and Root’s performances therein underscore the global nature of cricket and its power to unite diverse cultures through sport. As the series progresses, all eyes will remain on Root and the thrilling contest between England and India.
