May 23, 2025 — Joe Root has become the quickest cricketer in history to reach 13,000 runs in Test cricket, breaking the previous record held by India’s Sachin Tendulkar. Root achieved this milestone during England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.
Root reached 13,000 Test runs in just 153 matches, beating Tendulkar’s record of 159 matches to reach the same milestone. This achievement makes Root the fifth batsman to surpass 13,000 runs in Test cricket, joining the elite group alongside Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, and Rahul Dravid.
The 34-year-old former England captain needed only 28 runs at the start of his innings to hit the landmark and accomplished it with a single off Zimbabwean bowler Victor Nyauchi in the 80th over of England’s first innings. Although Root was dismissed soon after for 34 runs by Blessing Muzarabani, the crowd at Trent Bridge applauded his significant achievement.
Root’s record-breaking moment came amid a commanding display by England’s top order. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett built a strong partnership of 231 runs, scoring 124 and 140 respectively. Ollie Pope continued the momentum, remaining unbeaten on 169 by the end of the day. England finished the day at 498 for 3, their highest home Test score in more than a century.
This milestone reinforces Root’s standing as one of the modern greats in cricket. Since his Test debut in 2012, Root has been a crucial part of England’s batting lineup, renowned for his technique, temperament, and ability to perform under pressure.
Having surpassed Tendulkar’s record for the fastest to 13,000 Test runs, Root now aims to challenge the Indian legend’s all-time record of 15,921 Test runs. Experts believe that with his current form and fitness, Root is well placed to become the highest run-scorer in Test history.
As England’s Test summer progresses, Root’s achievement serves as inspiration to teammates and aspiring cricketers worldwide. His dedication, resilience, and love for the game exemplify the qualities required to succeed at the highest level of cricket.
