Who is England's greatest ever batsman? Joe Root surpasses Alastair Cook's record for most centuries

In a stunning display of batting prowess, Joe Root has etched his name in cricketing history, matching Alastair Cook's record for the most Test centuries by an English player.

Root achieved this milestone during the second Test of the three-match series against Sri Lanka at Lord's, London, on August 29.

Two days later, Root scored his 34th hundred in the second innings of the Test match as he surpassed Cook's tally.

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How did Joe Root reach this milestone?

Root reached his 33rd Test century with a commanding performance in the ongoing Test. He secured this landmark during the third session of the first day’s play at Lord's. 

He made us wait for it, but the moment Joe Root and the whole of Lord's was waiting for 🤩💯 pic.twitter.com/6CnDVJ89tD

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 29, 2024

This achievement tied Root with Alastair Cook, England's former captain, who also scored 33 centuries in his Test career. Two days later, Root scored a second consecutive hundred to surpass the southpaw's tally. 

Cook, who is the all-time leading run-scorer for England in Test cricket, accomplished this in 161 matches, whereas Root has reached this number in just 145 matches.

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Most centuries for England in Tests

Here is the list of the top 10 century-makers for England in Test cricket:

Root’s achievement not only places him alongside Alastair Cook as England’s most prolific century-maker but also solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen in Test cricket history.

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