Joe Root, the former England captain, has been making headlines in the ongoing Test series against India, not just for his elegant batting but also for the records he's either broken or is on the verge of breaking. One particular statistic, highlighting Root's prolific run-scoring against India, has sparked discussions about whether he can challenge Sachin Tendulkar's legacy as the greatest Test run-scorer of all time. This has led to former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri making a bold on-air claim about Root's potential.
Root's Test record speaks for itself. As of July 2025, he has amassed over 13,000 runs in his Test career, placing him among the top five run-scorers of all time. His average of over 50 demonstrates his consistency, and his 37 centuries are a testament to his ability to convert starts into big scores. What's particularly impressive is his record against India. He has scored over 3,000 Test runs against them, the most by any batter. His average against India is also remarkable, standing at over 57. In the ongoing series in England, Root has already achieved a significant milestone, surpassing Tendulkar's record for the most runs in India-England Test matches played in England. This feat was accomplished in just 16 matches, compared to Tendulkar's 17. During the third Test against India at Lord's, Root became the first-ever batter to score 3000 or more runs against India in Test cricket. He reached the milestone in his 60th innings against India, also marking his 13th half-century during that knock. He currently has 10 Test centuries against India.
However, when comparing Root to Tendulkar at the same stage of their careers, the numbers paint a slightly different picture. After 154 Tests, Root had scored 13,087 runs at an average of 50.92, including 36 centuries. Tendulkar, at the same stage, had 12,273 runs at a better average of 54.30, and more centuries, with 40. Tendulkar also played 29 fewer innings than Root at that point. Tendulkar ultimately retired with 15,921 Test runs at an average of 53.78, with 51 centuries.
Despite Tendulkar's impressive numbers, Ravi Shastri believes that Root has the potential to surpass Tendulkar's record. Shastri pointed out that if Root can maintain his fitness and form for another four years, he could get close to Tendulkar's record. "If he stays fit and free of any injury, if he plays for another four years, he will be close to Sachin", Shastri said.
Whether Root can surpass Tendulkar's record remains to be seen. He needs 2,835 runs to go past Tendulkar. Root is just 48 innings away from matching Tendulkar, which is approximately 24-25 more Tests. If Root scores at his current average, he should score another 2,400 runs more, which is still not enough to surpass Tendulkar's run-tally. Several factors will play a crucial role, including his form, fitness, and longevity. If Root can maintain his current form and avoid serious injuries, he has a good chance of challenging Tendulkar's record. He is currently 34 years old, and if he can play until he is 40, like Tendulkar did, his chances will further improve.
Root has already broken one of Tendulkar's records, surpassing him as the highest run-scorer in the fourth innings of Test matches. Before the start of a match in late 2024, Tendulkar held the record of scoring the most runs in the 4th innings of the Test, having scored 1625 runs in his career. However, Root now has 1630 runs to his name in the 4th innings of Tests.
In conclusion, Joe Root's impressive Test record, particularly his dominance against India, has led to discussions about his potential to challenge Sachin Tendulkar's legacy. While Root has already broken some of Tendulkar's records, surpassing Tendulkar's all-time Test record will be a formidable challenge. However, with his talent, determination, and love for the game, Root has every chance of getting closer to the record. Only time will tell if he can achieve this monumental feat.
