Michael Vaughan compares Joe Root and Virat Kohli's Test numbers
Ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan has stirred up a debate by comparing the Test cricket statistics of India's Virat Kohli and England's Joe Root. The comparison came after Root scored an impressive century in the ongoing second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's. This was Root's 33rd Test century, placing him alongside Alastair Cook on England's all-time list and joint-tenth globally for most centuries in this format.
Vaughan highlights Root's superior Test record
Vaughan highlighted that Root has outperformed Kohli in Test cricket, with more runs, centuries, a higher average, and over double the number of half-centuries. This comparison was shared by Vaughan on his X (formerly Twitter) account with the caption 'Morning India,' sparking a heated debate among Kohli's fans. Many defended Kohli by pointing to Root's recent performance in the four-match Test series against India.
Root and Kohli's Test careers: A closer look
Root's 33rd century took him to 12,274 runs in Tests at an average of 50.71. In addition to 33 centuries, he has slammed 64 fifties. In contrast, Kohli has appeared in 113 Tests and has racked up 8,848 runs at an average of 49.15 with 29 centuries and 30 fifties to his credit. The Indian star will have chances to boost these stats in the next 10 matches: two against Bangladesh, three against New Zealand, and five against Australia.
Root's century steers England in ongoing Test
In the second Test at Lord's against Sri Lanka, England faced a tough situation early on, struggling at 130/4. However, Root took charge and scored an impressive 143 runs to steer his team out of trouble. His century came after England was reduced to 42 for two when he came into bat. His knock consisted of 18 fours.
Root equals Cook's record with 33rd Test century
Root's century put him on par with former England captain Cook's record of 33 Test centuries. However, Root achieved this milestone in his 145th match, whereas Cook reached his tally over 161 games. With his latest century, Root climbed into joint-10th place on the all-time Test century-makers list. The top spot is held by India's Sachin Tendulkar, who scored 51 centuries in 200 Tests.
