Joe Root Sets New England Century Record, Surpassing Alastair Cook

Former England captain Joe Root made history on Day 3 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s by scoring his 34th Test century. This achievement allowed him to surpass Alastair Cook’s record of 33 centuries for England. Joe Root had equaled Cook’s record in the first innings and then overtook him by reaching another century in the second innings, hitting a boundary off Lahiru Kumara. This milestone was particularly impressive as it came from just 111 balls, marking Root’s fastest Test century. While Cook had scored his 33rd century in his final Test match for England, Root managed to surpass him in just his 145th Test.

Cook Praises Root

Alastair Cook, who was commentating at the time, was full of praise for Root, calling him “England’s greatest.” Cook acknowledged that Root deserved the record and should be recognized for his genius. Cook’s emotional reaction was captured on video as he watched Root reach the milestone, which quickly spread across social media.

More Records for Root at Lord’s

Root’s seventh century at Lord’s also made him the player with the most Test centuries at the iconic venue, overtaking England legends Graham Gooch and Michael Vaughan, who each had six centuries there. Root also joined an exclusive group of cricketers who have scored centuries in both innings of a Test at Lord’s, becoming the fourth player to do so after George Headley, Graham Gooch, and Michael Vaughan.

Root’s Place Among the Greats

Root’s 34th Test century places him in joint-sixth on the all-time list of Test century-makers, a prestigious group led by India’s Sachin Tendulkar with 51 centuries in 200 Tests. At 33 years old, Root is the only active player among these elite cricketers, highlighting his ongoing impact on the game.

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