New Delhi: Joe Root made history during the first Test of the three-match series against New Zealand in Christchurch, as he helped England chase down a target of 104, remaining unbeaten on 23 off 15 balls. Root’s knock included 3 boundaries and a six, propelling England to a 1-0 lead in the series.
Joe Root broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for the most runs in the 4th innings of Test matches during his innings in Christchurch. Tendulkar, who retired in 2013, had held the record for over a decade.
Sachin Tendulkar, the Master Blaster, scored 1625 runs in the fourth innings across 200 Test matches. Joe Root surpassed this record with 1630 runs in just 149 Tests. Alastair Cook and Graeme Smith share the third spot, both having scored 1611 runs in fourth innings.
Joe Root, who has already broken several records held by Sachin Tendulkar, is now eyeing the record for the most runs in Test cricket history. Tendulkar finished his career with 15,921 runs, while Root has accumulated 12,754 runs so far and could break Tendulkar’s record in the next 3-4 years.
England started their tour of New Zealand with a dominant performance, bowling out the hosts for 348 and responding with a total of 499 to take a 151-run lead. New Zealand managed 254 in their second innings, setting a target of 104 for England.
England lost the early wicket of Zak Crawley, but they stayed on course throughout the chase. Ben Duckett played a vital knock of 27 off 18 balls, while Jacob Bethell remained unbeaten on 37 off 50 balls. Joe Root contributed with 23 off 15 balls as England wrapped up the chase in just 12.4 overs.
The second Test of the series will be held at the Basin Reserve in Wellington from December 6 to 10, followed by the third and final Test at Hamilton’s Seddon Park from December 14 to 18.
