Joe Root Matches Cook’s Record with Unbeaten 143 at Lord’s

Joe Root scored an unbeaten 143 in the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, equaling Sir Alastair Cook’s record for the most Test centuries by an England player. Root’s innings anchored England’s 358-7 on the opening day. Although Sri Lanka put England in to bat on a docile pitch, Root’s exceptional performance prevented England from faltering.

His innings featured valuable partnerships with Harry Brook and Jamie Smith and a crucial 92-run stand with Gus Atkinson, who also impressed with a maiden Test half-century. Sri Lanka’s decision to bowl first surprised many, especially given the pitch’s lack of assistance for the bowlers. England initially faced challenges, with key batters like Dan Lawrence and stand-in captain Ollie Pope falling cheaply.

Lawrence got out for nine and Pope scored only one, leaving England at 82-3 and then 130-4. However, Root’s resilience and Atkinson’s aggressive batting stabilized the innings. Root’s innings ended with an attempt at a reverse-scoop, but he made a significant contribution. Atkinson’s unbeaten 74 and Matthew Potts’ 20 not out added crucial runs, with their partnership extending England’s total.

Sri Lanka having chosen to field first will hope the pitch improves for batting as the match progresses. Despite the initial advantage, Sri Lanka must act quickly to dismiss England’s lower order and make a strong reply. Former England captains Sir Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan lauded Root’s performance, praising his drive and consistency.

Joe Root felt in good form but recognized that achieving perfection in batting remains an ongoing pursuit.