Joe Root once again underlined his status as one of modern cricket’s finest batters with a commanding 160-run innings on day two of the fifth Ashes Test, anchoring England in challenging conditions on Australian soil.
The 34-year-old’s knock marked his 41st Test century, drawing him level with Australian legend Ricky Ponting, and his second hundred of the series in Australia. Root faced 242 deliveries, striking 15 boundaries, and showcased immense patience, technique, and temperament as England battled back from early trouble.
England found themselves in difficulty after losing early wickets, but Root’s calm presence at the crease steadied the innings. His crucial 154-run partnership with Harry Brook shifted momentum and kept England competitive in a contest where Australia already holds an unassailable 3–1 series lead.
Root’s innings finally came to an end when he was dismissed by Michael Neser, but by then, he had laid a strong foundation and reaffirmed his reputation as England’s dependable pillar in Test cricket.
The match also carries emotional weight for Australia, serving as a farewell Test for veteran opener Usman Khawaja, who has announced his retirement. Khawaja’s contribution to Australian cricket was widely acknowledged, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praising his legacy, even as opinions remain divided over Khawaja’s off-field activism.
As the Ashes series draws toward its conclusion, Root’s milestone innings stands out as a reminder of cricket’s enduring ability to blend records, resilience, and legacy on the game’s grandest stage.
Discover more from Allycaral
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
