Joe Root etched his name deeper into the annals of English cricket history as he became England’s highest run-scorer in One Day Internationals (ODIs), surpassing former skipper Eoin Morgan during the second ODI against the West Indies at the Sophia Gardens in Cardiff.
The landmark moment came when Root reached 42 runs in the innings, overtaking Morgan’s tally of 6,957 ODI runs. With this, Root not only claimed the top spot in England's ODI run charts but also strengthened his legacy as the most prolific batter across formats for the nation.
Already England’s leading run-getter in Test cricket, Root’s ODI career has been equally remarkable. Since making his debut in 2013, the stylish right-hander has racked up runs with consistency and class. His latest milestone came in his 179th ODI, during which he has maintained an outstanding average of over 48 — the best by any Englishman with at least 3,000 ODI runs.
Root's record includes 18 centuries, more than any other English batter in the format. The next best is 13 (Morgan). Additionally, he has amassed 42 half-centuries and strikes at a healthy rate of over 87.
Root's Test achievements are equally storied. Just last month, he became the fifth player in history to cross 13,000 Test runs, accomplishing the feat in his 153rd match. His Test average stands at an imposing 50.80, with 36 centuries and 65 fifties to his name.
While his appearances in T20 Internationals have been limited, Root has quietly accumulated 893 runs at an impressive average of 35.72, including five fifties.
Root played a crucial role in England’s historic 2019 ODI World Cup triumph — the nation's first — and continues to be a standout performer in cricket’s grandest stage. In 2023, he became the first English player to surpass 1,000 runs in ODI World Cups. Across 26 World Cup games, he has scored 1,034 runs at an average nearing 45, including three hundreds and six fifties.
At 34, Joe Root continues to be a cornerstone of England’s batting across formats. His latest milestone reinforces his stature as one of the finest cricketers the country has ever produced.
Root played an unbeaten knock of 166 runs off 139 balls, including 21 fours and two sixes, to help his team win the match by three wickets. England chased down a 309-run target comfortably with seven deliveries to spare.
Adil Rashid also made an unbeaten 10 off 11 balls, including two crucial fours. He also took four wickets in the match.
