Statistical comparison between Virat Kohli and Joe Root in Tests
India and England are all set to lock horns in the four-Test series, starting February 5. For the hosts, skipper Virat Kohli returns to action after missing out on the final leg of Australian tour. Meanwhile, his counterpart Joe Root would want to capitalize upon his incredible form that helped England trounce Sri Lanka 2-0. Let us compare their numbers in Test cricket.
A look at Kohli's Test numbers
At present, Kohli is one the most prolific batsmen in the longest format. He has tallied 7,318 runs from 87 Tests at an astonishing average of 53.42. The formidable tally includes 27 tons, joint-highest in the format among active cricketer (along with Steve Smith). Kohli also owns a record seven double-tons in Tests. His highest score of 254 came against South Africa in 2019.
How has Root fared in Test cricket?
Root is now the leading run-scorer in Tests among active cricketers. He has racked up 8,249 runs from 99 Tests at an average of 49.10. In the recently-concluded series against Sri Lanka, he also became England's fourth-highest run-getter, surpassing the tally of Geoffrey Boycott (8,114), Kevin Pietersen (8,181), and David Gower (8,231). The former also has 19 tons and four double-tons in the format.
Comparing the numbers in home and away Tests
At home, Root has amassed 4,348 runs from 53 Tests at 50.55. Interestingly, 11 of his 19 Test tons have been registered on the home soil. Although Kohli (3,558) has less runs than Root in home Tests, he averages more (68.42). However, Kohli (3,760) is ahead of Root (3,614) in terms of away runs. Notably, Kohli has slammed 14 tons in away Tests.
Root averages 56.84 in Tests against India
Root has a legacy of performing well against India. In 16 Tests against them, he has tallied 1,421 runs at a prolific average of 56.84, including four tons. His average in India climbs over 50 as well (53.09). On the other hand, Kohli owns 1570 runs from 19 Tests against England at a lower average (49.06). However, he averages 70.25 in India against them.
Root and Kohli have contributed significantly in victories
It is safe to say that Root and Kohli have grown as batsmen after taking over the reigns of their sides. The latter has already become India's most successful Test captain, having led them to 33 wins. In these victories, Kohli has aggregated 3,239 runs at 64.78. Meanwhile, Root has contributed 2,253 runs at 51.20 in 25 matches that he has won for England.
