Joe Root could complete 10,000 Test runs in West Indies
England's Joe Root is the leading run-scorer in Test cricket among active cricketers. He is the closest to touching the 10,000-run mark in the format. Root can unlock this monumental achievement in the three-match Test series against West Indies, starting March 8. He is set to become the second England batter with over 10,000 Test runs. Here are the key stats.
Why does this story matter?
England captain Root is one of the most prolific batters in Test cricket. He is known for his sound technique and consistency. In a career spanning over a decade, he has racked up 9,600 runs from 114 Tests at an average of 49.23. He is England's second-highest run-scorer in the format after former captain Alastair Cook (12,472).
Where does Root stand among Fab Four?
Root has the most runs among active cricketers (9,600). Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is his closest rival. The latter has amassed 8,007 runs from 100 Tests at a remarkable average of 50.35. Australia's Steven Smith is just behind Kohli. He averages over 60 in the format, having scored 7,845 runs. Meanwhile, Kane Williamson owns 7,272 Test runs at an average of 53.47.
Root eyes these milestones
Root is set to become the 14th cricketer to score 10,000 or more runs in Test cricket. He could become the fastest from England to this landmark. Cook scored his 10,000th run in his 229th innings. Meanwhile, Root has played 210 innings in the format as of now. West Indies legend Brian Lara remains the fastest to 10,000 Test runs (195 innings).
Root set to eclipse Cook
Earlier this year, Root became the first England player to score 5,000 runs as captain in Test cricket. He earlier surpassed the long-standing record of Cook, who tallied 4,844 runs while leading England. Root could now break a tie with Cook in terms of Test centuries as captain. At present, both Cook and Root have 12 tons while leading.
Root eyes 1,000-run mark in WI
Root has racked up 535 runs from six Tests in West Indies at an average of 53.50. He could become the fourth England batter after Geoff Boycott (1,179), Alec Stewart (1,099), and Colin Cowdrey (1,025) to score 1,000 runs in the Caribbean.
