Joe Root's magnificent form continues as he etches his name further into cricket's history books. During the ongoing Ashes series in Sydney, Root scored his 41st Test century, equalling Ricky Ponting's record. This achievement underscores Root's dominance in Test cricket and his importance to the England squad.

Root's innings in Sydney not only leveled him with Ponting but also marked his second century of the 2025/26 Ashes series. Before this series, Root had not reached the milestone in 14 Test matches in Australia. After 16 matches, 30 innings, and four tours, Root finally had his moment in Australia. This century was his first in Australia, ending a long wait and achieving one of the few milestones missing from his record.

Root's journey in Test cricket has been remarkable. As of January 2026, he has played 163 Test matches, scoring 13,777 runs at an average of 51, including 41 centuries and 66 half-centuries. His highest score remains 262, made against Pakistan in October 2024. Root is currently the leading run-scorer among active batsmen and the second-highest run-scorer of all time in Test cricket.

Beyond Test centuries, Root is also approaching Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most Test fifties. He has 67 fifties, just one short of Tendulkar's 68. In the Sydney Test, Root and Harry Brook combined to lift England to 211 for three, building England's biggest stand of the series. Root's calm and controlled innings, along with Brook's hyperactive presence, tamed the Australian attack.

Root made his Test debut in December 2012 and scored his first century against New Zealand in 2013. He was named one of Wisden's Cricketers of the Year in 2014. Root also holds several other records, including being the fastest to 13,000 Test runs. While Sachin Tendulkar holds the record with 15,921 runs from 200 Tests, Root is within striking distance and has the potential to surpass this milestone.

Root has shown a particular liking for playing against India, with 13 of his Test centuries scored against them. At home, he has scored 23 Test centuries. While Root has dominated at home and against certain opponents, he has faced challenges in countries like Australia.

Joe Root's career stats showcase his exceptional talent and consistency. He is not only a prolific run-scorer but also a valuable bowler, with 73 Test wickets. His contributions have made him one of the greatest batsmen of his era. As he continues his career, Sachin Tendulkar's records are well within sight, and the cricket world eagerly anticipates Root's future achievements.