Joe Root surpasses Rahul Dravid record in Test cricket

Joe Root made history on December 7 by surpassing Indian legend Rahul Dravid to become the fourth batter in Test cricket to achieve 100 scores of 50 or more.

Root reached this milestone while batting against New Zealand in the second Test of the series. His composed knock of 73 not out, which included five boundaries, helped England dominate the match as they ended Day 2 with a massive lead of 533 runs with five wickets in hand.  

Root’s achievement is a testament to his consistency and skill in the longest format. With 35 centuries and 65 half-centuries in Test cricket, Root now joins an elite group of batters who have achieved this remarkable feat. Rahul Dravid, whom Root overtook, is now ranked fifth on the list with 99 scores of 50 or more, including 36 centuries.  

The list of all-time greats is led by Sachin Tendulkar, who has an unmatched 119 scores of 50 or more, including 51 centuries. South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis and Australian legend Ricky Ponting share the second spot with 103 such scores. Kallis boasts 45 centuries, while Ponting has 41 to his name.  

Root’s performance on Day 2 not only broke a long-standing record but also put England in a commanding position against New Zealand.