In the world of Test cricket, comparisons are often drawn between legends, and the latest buzz surrounds England's Joe Root and India's Sachin Tendulkar. As Root continues to close in on Tendulkar's formidable records, cricket fans and analysts alike are left pondering: Is Joe Root the best Test batsman of all time, potentially even better than Tendulkar? With Root's recent performances solidifying his place among the game's greats, let's dive into ten key insights that shed light on this riveting debate and reveal the stats that make Root a contender for the title.
Since 2021, Joe Root has been on an impressive trajectory, amassing 4,579 runs in just 49 Tests. This averages out to an astonishing 55.84, showcasing his consistency and skill in Test cricket.
As of now, Root is just 3,519 runs away from Sachin Tendulkar's legendary record of 15,921 runs. With six Tests remaining this year, the chase is on for Root to shorten this gap further.
Root recently became England's highest Test run-scorer, surpassing Alastair Cook's 12,472 runs. His remarkable 35 centuries put him in elite company, only behind Tendulkar and a few others.
With 99 scores of 50 or more, Root is joint-third in this category alongside Rahul Dravid. Tendulkar tops the list with 119, emphasizing the competitive nature of this achievement.
Root's sixth Test double-century, achieved against Pakistan, places him second among English players. Only Wally Hammond has more, highlighting Root's ability to play long innings when it matters most.
At 33, Root has several years left in his career. If he maintains his current form, he has a realistic shot at surpassing Tendulkar's record and solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest.
After 267 innings, Tendulkar had amassed 13,091 runs with 44 centuries. In contrast, Root's tally of 12,402 runs at this stage shows how closely they are matched as they progressed in their careers.
Root has played 57 Tests since 2020, far more than his contemporaries like Steve Smith and Virat Kohli, emphasizing his commitment to the format and his team's needs.
Root has a commendable average of over 45 in seven out of ten countries he has played in, showcasing his adaptability. Tendulkar also performed well globally, averaging over 40 in all countries.
With his current form, Root is not only a contender to break Tendulkar’s records but also a player to watch in the coming years. His determination and skill make him a significant figure in cricket's ongoing narrative.