🏏 Root Equals Ponting, 10 Behind Tendulkar

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Key Takeaways

1📊 Joe Root: 41st Test century, equals Ponting
2🏆 Just 10 behind Tendulkar's 51 record
3💡 160 off 250 balls, series 450 runs at 56
4🔮 Eyes 42nd ton in Ashes finale
5💬 Matches Stokes with Bob Willis wkts

"Ben Stokes pulls level with Bob Willis, while Alex Carey now has 27 dismissals in the Ashes series, only behind 29 by Brad Haddin in 2013 and 28 by Rod Marsh in 1982-83"

Joe Root etched his name deeper into Test history with his 41st century at the SCG, equalling Ricky Ponting for third on the all-time list, just 10 shy of Sachin Tendulkar's 51. This glorious 160 in the decisive 2025-26 Ashes Test came amid England's turmoil, showcasing Root's class as Ben Stokes's side battled for survival. A masterclass of patience and placement, it offered fleeting hope in a series slipping away.

Root's career arc is legendary: 41 tons in 150+ Tests, averaging 51 overall and 60+ in Ashes. This century – his 24th away – lifts his series mark to 450 runs at 56. Amid England's brainfades, Root's consistency recalls Tendulkar's longevity, pulling level with Ponting (41) while Stokes matches Bob Willis (197 wkts as captain). Alex Carey's 27 dismissals edge Ashes records.

Root's Statistical Ascendancy

Breaking it down: Root's 41 tons place him joint-third all-time, behind only Tendulkar (51) and Kallis (45). SCG knock: 160 off 250 balls, strike rate 64, with 20 fours. Vs Ponting's peak (2005 Ashes twin tons), Root's is more gritty – rescuing from 50-3. Career away average 54, surpassing Steve Smith's recent dip; only 10 tons from GOAT status.

Milestone Reshapes Legacy

For England, 1-0 down no more, Root's ton keeps Ashes alive, boosting morale despite Australia's edge. Globally, it cements Root as modern great, pressuring Tendulkar's throne. Carey's 27 dismissals (behind Haddin/Marsh) underline Australia's keeping strength, tilting series balance.

Chasing Tendulkar's Summit

Final Test hinges on Root extending to double-ton; England targets lead. Watch if he cracks 42, closing on immortality. Fans follow for history – does Root redefine England's tour?