Joe Root May Break Tendulkar’s Test Runs Record
Joe Root’s rising Test run tally has ignited a spirited discussion in the cricket world. The former England captain, now fifth on the all-time list with 13,270 runs, is edging closer to cricketing legends Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, and Ricky Ponting. But the real buzz came on Day 2 of the fourth Test against India in Manchester, where former India coach Ravi Shastri made a bold prediction during commentary—Joe Root could eventually overtake Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921 runs.
At just 33 years old and with many Tests likely ahead of him, Root has played 157 matches so far. Shastri noted that Root may climb to second place on the list within a few matches and potentially end his career with over 19,000 Test runs. He highlighted Root’s fitness, form, and the fact that he still has “four more years of cricket left in him,” which could help him surpass Tendulkar by 3,000 runs.
Stat Sparks Caution and National Sentiment
The conversation took a turn when Michael Atherton shared a stat provided by Sky Sports analyst Benedict Bermange: Root has a 60.28% chance of breaking Tendulkar’s record. Atherton admitted he wasn’t sure how the number was calculated, but it certainly caught everyone’s attention.
Ravi Shastri warned that the statistic wouldn’t sit well with Indian fans watching the match late at night. He joked, “It won’t be music to the ears of Indians,” as millions of fans in Mumbai were likely tuning in when the stat was shared.
Atherton added humorously, “He’ll be cursed,” referencing the passionate Indian fan base and the emotional weight behind Tendulkar’s record.
Root’s Motivation and the Changing Test Landscape
Atherton also suggested that should Root surpass Tendulkar, the record might stand untouched for generations. With modern cricket leaning toward shorter formats and many players opting out of lengthy Test careers, the era of 15,000-plus Test runs could be nearing its end.
Shastri agreed, saying, “That’s what’s going to drive him.” According to him, Root understands the changing nature of cricket and knows he has a rare opportunity to leave behind a nearly unbreakable legacy in red-ball cricket.
As the cricketing world watches, Joe Root’s every innings will now come with added pressure—and the potential to etch his name above the greatest to ever play the game.
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