
Root’s Historic knock stole the spotlight on Day 3 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford. The iconic English batter delivered a sublime century, anchoring England’s innings and driving them to a commanding 544/7, which gave the hosts a 186-run lead over India. Root’s Historic performance wasn’t just timely — it was legendary.
💪 Historic Domination at Old Trafford
England began Day 3 at 225/2, with Joe Root and Ollie Pope looking set. Although India hoped to make early inroads, Root’s historic intent quickly snuffed out those plans. Together with Pope, he built a formidable partnership, extending England’s dominance.
- Duckett had already laid the base with 94
- Pope played fluently for his 71
- Root, however, was the glue
Root’s Historic form at Old Trafford was on full display, frustrating bowlers with his rhythm, footwork, and precision.
📊 Records Pile Up
The numbers behind Root’s Historic innings are staggering. Not only did he register his 38th Test century, but he also:
- Equaled Jayawardene’s 16 scores of 150+
- Moved past Jacques Kallis in Test runs
- Became the first to cross 1000 runs at Old Trafford in Tests
Moreover, it was his 12th Test century against India, the most by any batter against them. He also has 104 fifty-plus scores, second only to Tendulkar.
Clearly, Root’s Historic consistency puts him in the elite bracket of Test greats.
🧱 Root Anchors, Bowlers Struggle
India’s bowlers couldn’t dismantle the foundation laid by Root’s Historic knock. Though Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja grabbed some scalps, England marched ahead steadily.
Even when wickets fell at the other end, Root looked unflustered. Eventually, he was stumped for exactly 150 while trying to accelerate the scoring rate.
However, Root’s Historic impact had already shifted the balance of the Test in England’s favour.
🧠 Stokes Supports the Charge
Ben Stokes played a captain’s knock of 77 not out, guiding England to an imposing total. While others chipped in, his ability to keep the scoreboard moving after Root’s departure ensured momentum stayed with England.
🏏 Score Summary
India 1st Innings: 358
England 1st Innings: 544/7
Lead: England by 186 runs
📈 Root’s Historic Numbers Among Greats
| Player | Runs | 100s | 150+ Scores |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | 15921 | 51 | 20 |
| Joe Root | 13409 | 38 | 16 |
| Ricky Ponting | 13378 | 41 | 13 |
| Jacques Kallis | 13289 | 45 | 13 |






