Cricket legend Michael Atherton believes England’s Joe Root could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time Test run record within the next two and a half years, a remarkable feat that would etch his name even further into cricketing history.
Joe Root’s Historic Ascent
Joe Root recently cemented his place among Test cricket’s elite. During a significant innings, he moved past two iconic names: India’s Rahul Dravid and South Africa’s Jacques Kallis.
This achievement places Root third on the list of all-time leading Test run-scorers, with only Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar ahead of him. He is already England’s highest run-scorer in Test matches, having long surpassed Alastair Cook’s record.
The Sachin Tendulkar Target
The ultimate goal, according to Michael Atherton, is within Root’s grasp. Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for most Test runs with an astonishing 15,921.
Atherton, speaking on Sky Sports, calculated that Root, who averages around 85 runs per Test, would need approximately 30 more matches to reach Tendulkar’s formidable tally. This suggests a timeline of roughly two and a half years, assuming a regular Test schedule.
Outshining His Peers
Root’s consistent performance has seen him outpace many of his contemporary “Fab Four” rivals. While Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson are all exceptional batsmen, Root currently boasts a significant lead in Test runs among them.
His dedication and longevity in the format make him the most likely candidate from his generation to challenge the all-time records.
The Path Ahead for Root
Atherton’s optimism comes with a caveat. While Root is currently playing “the best he’s ever played” and shows no sign of diminished desire for the game, unforeseen challenges like injuries could impact his journey.
However, given a clear run, Atherton believes the numbers will naturally follow. Root’s current form and unwavering commitment are key factors in this bold prediction.
Milestones and Records
Root already boasts an impressive record of 104 scores of 50 or more in Test cricket. This places him second only to Sachin Tendulkar, who achieved 119 such scores.
These consistent contributions highlight Root’s ability to build significant innings, a trait that will be crucial if he is to chase down the ultimate Test batting record.
- Joe Root recently surpassed Rahul Dravid and Jacques Kallis in Test runs.
- He is now the third-highest Test run-scorer of all time, behind Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar.
- Michael Atherton predicts Root could break Sachin Tendulkar’s record (15,921 runs) in about 2.5 years.
- Root needs approximately 30 more Test matches, averaging 85 runs per Test, to achieve this feat.
- His continued form, desire for the game, and absence of major injuries are key to reaching the milestone.
The cricketing world will be watching closely as Joe Root continues his pursuit of history, aiming for one of the sport’s most revered records.
