Joe Root is the highest run-scorer in Test cricket among active players. The Englishman is a Test specialist and has scored most of his career runs in the red-ball format. Root played his last T20I game in 2019, and has not played an ODI match since the 2023 World Cup.
Joe Root is the closest to equalling, or surpassing the great Sachin Tendulkar's runs tally in Test cricket. The Englishman has reserved himself for the longer formats and is rarely unavailable for selection for the Test squad.
Root, as of August 2024, is fifth on the list of highest run-getters in Tests. As Joe Roots climbs a mountain to catch Tendulkar, The Sporting News analyses the feasibility of any such feat.
How many runs does Joe Root need to overtake Sachin Tendulkar's Test career runs?
Even matching Sachin Tendulkar's Test career runs would be an incredible feat, let alone surpassing the tally. Tendulkar, having played 200 Tests in his career, has scored close to 16000 runs in the longest format.
Joe Root needs 3257 runs to surpass Sachin Tendulkar's Test career runs tally. Having played 53 fewer Tests, the 33-year-old would have to perform like he did in his prime, in the twilight years of his cricketing career.
| Player | Matches | Test runs |
|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | 200 | 15921 |
| Joe Root | 147* | 12664 |