Joe Root faces two major tests ahead

From Captain to Run-Scoring Machine

The decision by England’s selectors to relieve Joe Root of his captaincy duties was a game-changer, allowing him to fully focus on his batting prowess. Already a brilliant batsman, Root managed to score 14 centuries in 118 innings during his captaincy, but there’s no denying that leadership and Root weren’t the perfect match. Once freed from the captaincy over two years ago, Root quickly transformed into a consistent run-scoring powerhouse, amassing ten centuries in just 54 innings since.

This year alone, Root has stormed past the 1,000-run milestone, notching up centuries at an astonishing rate—approximately one every four innings. Such a performance is nothing short of extraordinary. 

On this scoring spree, Root also surpassed the legendary Sir Alastair Cook to become England's all-time leading Test run-scorer, and he's steadily extending that lead. With his 35th birthday approaching, there’s a good chance that by the time Root hangs up his bat, his record will stand head and shoulders above others. Born to score runs, Root impressed from the very start of his career, making a solid 73 in his debut Test match in India. Watching him bat is a treat, as he seamlessly blends technical skill with a relentless hunger for runs.

Root's Partnerships

His on-field chemistry with Jonny Bairstow has been thrilling to witness. The two Yorkshiremen have delivered exciting partnerships, running brilliantly between wickets and constantly pushing the scoreboard forward. When Ben Stokes took over as England’s captain and the team’s batting became more aggressive, Root briefly experimented with modern, riskier shots. Although he adapted well, one poorly executed scoop that ended up in the hands of a slip fielder led him to rethink his approach.

Root wisely returned to his tried-and-tested methods, becoming even more resilient at the crease. It was never about his scoring rate—Root has always been quick to accumulate runs. As some of his teammates have opted for an aggressive style, Root has remained the anchor, steadily building big innings while they target the opposition’s bowling attack with full force.

Challenges Ahead

One minor blemish in his otherwise stellar record is his inability to notch a century in Australia, despite having played 27 innings there. His last shot at correcting this will likely come in the 2025-26 Ashes series, assuming he remains fit and in form. It’s not that Root has struggled in Australia—his average of around 35 is respectable—but after making nine scores over 50 without reaching a hundred, it’s clear that he hasn’t quite hit his usual standards.

A particular challenge for Root in Australia has been the regular dismissals by the home side's top bowlers. However, Root could argue that being dismissed by top-tier bowlers is hardly a weakness. What’s more concerning is the frequency with which he’s been caught behind—Australian wicketkeepers have taken ten catches off his edges in just 27 innings. This trend suggests Root needs to adjust his technique to handle the extra bounce found on Australian pitches.

Root’s incredible run-scoring abilities will face another test soon, first against India at home and then against Australia away. Both series will pit him against some of the finest bowling attacks in Test cricket, challenging his technique against both pace and spin. 

These upcoming challenges are bound to test Root and the England team. Currently, they find themselves under pressure after Pakistan levelled their three-match series, using spin to completely baffle the English lineup. As one of England’s most technically proficient players, Root will need to guide his teammates away from over-relying on sweeping shots to tackle spin, which won’t be an easy task, even for someone of his talent.