Who is England’s greatest ever batsman? Joe Root surpasses Alastair Cook’s record for most centuries

In a remarkable demonstration of batting skill, Joe Root has made history in cricket by equaling Alastair Cook’s record for the most Test centuries by an English player.

Root achieved this feat during the second Test of the series against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, London, on August 29.

Just two days later, Root notched his 34th century in the second innings of the Test match, surpassing Cook’s previous record.

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How did Joe Root achieve this milestone?

Root reached his 33rd Test century with an impressive performance in the ongoing Test. He reached this milestone during the third session of play on the first day at Lord’s.

He made us wait for it, but the moment Joe Root and the whole of Lord’s was waiting for 🤩💯 pic.twitter.com/6CnDVJ89tD

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 29, 2024

This achievement tied Root with Alastair Cook, England’s former captain, who also scored 33 centuries in his Test career. Two days later, Root scored another century to surpass Cook’s tally.

Cook, the all-time leading run-scorer for England in Test cricket, achieved this in 161 matches, while Root reached the milestone in just 145 matches.

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Top century-makers for England in Tests

Here is a list of the top 10 century-makers for England in Test cricket:

Root’s achievement not only places him alongside Alastair Cook as England’s most prolific century-maker, but also cements his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen in Test cricket history.