The 34-year-old surpassed three legends in one day as he cemented his place among the greats – and helped England strengthen their lead

Just one man stands in the way of Joe Root and cricketing history. With his latest batting masterclass of 150, the England star became the second highest run-scorer in test cricket behind India great Sachin Tendulkar.

In a game that so often idolises the spectacular and the brash, Joe Root's journey reminds us that true greatness is forged in patience, humility, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement.

Root was given his Test cap by Collingwood in India—and it was no coincidence. Root became the fielder with the most catches in Test cricket. His career is not just an offshoot of its own; it's linked with legends and history.

England will need eight wickets not seven with a hobbling Rishabh Pant batting with broken foot a real possibility, and this pitch is not wearing that much, so lot of work to do, according to Nasser Hussain.

On day 3, in the fourth innings of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Joe Root accidentally smacked Mohammed Siraj's wristbandwith his bat while stealing a run. This happened in the 52nd ball, when a ball from Siraj hit his pads.

No airs, no graces – just a wave of the right hand and a slight nod of the head from one of sport’s most self-effacing figures, as Joe Root humbly acknowledged a standing ovation when he passed Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run scorer in Test history.

Joe Root, the second highest run-scorer in Tests had climbed the run-mountain by 'eliminating risk of all possible modes of dismissal.