Joe Root, England’s key batter, achieved a significant milestone on Friday by scoring his 37th Test century during the second day of the third Test against India at Lord’s. This century propelled him past Rahul Dravid’s total of 36, placing Root fifth on the all-time list for the most Test hundreds.

Root resumed the innings on 99 not out and reached his century with a boundary on the very first ball of the day. His innings, which lasted 192 balls, was marked by patience and control in challenging playing conditions.

Players with the Most Test Centuries

51 – Sachin Tendulkar
45 – Jacques Kallis
41 – Ricky Ponting
38 – Kumar Sangakkara
37* – Joe Root

England were bowled out for 387, following a well-crafted 104 off 199 balls by Joe Root, who Jasprit Bumrah eventually dismissed. Bumrah took five wickets for the hosts.

England began Day 1 under pressure, losing two early wickets to India’s Nitish Kumar Reddy, who dismissed both openers. Root and Ollie Pope combined to stabilise the innings, their steadfast batting challenging the Indian bowling attack.

By the lunch break, the partnership had taken England to 83 for 2. Despite intense spells from the Indian pace attack and verbal exchanges, especially involving Mohammed Siraj, Root stayed calm and guided the innings.

After the break, India struck back with quick wickets, with Ravindra Jadeja dismissing Pope and Jasprit Bumrah taking Harry Brook’s wicket. However, Root remained composed, joining forces with captain Ben Stokes to add a crucial 50 runs.

Root’s innings stood out due to his smart strike rotation, selective shot-making, and a more cautious approach compared to England’s typical aggressive ‘Bazball’ style, highlighting the value of adaptability in Test cricket.

He finished Day 1 on 99 not out and reached his century shortly after play resumed on Day 2. This innings reinforces Root’s reputation as one of the modern greats in Test cricket, with more milestones likely ahead as the series continues.

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