Veteran batsman Joe Root on Sunday became England’s highest one-day run-scorer in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), surpassing the record held by former skipper Eoin Morgan. Root broke the record during the second ODI of the three-match series against West Indies, played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.
Root surpassed Morgan’s England total of 6,957 ODI runs though Morgan’s entire career total reads 7,701 runs, that number includes the runs he scored representing Ireland. Root’s longevity and consistency have now put him at number one in England’s ODI run tallies.
Joe Root becomes Quickest Englishman to 7,000 ODI Runs
In the same game, Root also reached 7,000 runs in ODIs, achieving the milestone in just 168 innings. He becomes the world’s fifth quickest to achieve the feat behind some of the greats like Hashim Amla (150 innings), Kane Williamson (159), Virat Kohli (161), and AB de Villiers (166).
The 33-year-old crossed 7,000 runs with a typical cut stroke for four off Matthew Forde in the 12th over of England’s innings.
Match Situation: Root Anchors England’s Chase
Root walked out to bat under huge pressure, with England struggling at 2 for 2 after a hapless start to their pursuit of 309. He reacted in characteristic style serene, confident, and authoritative. He pulled together a vital 85-run partnership with Harry Brook and then went on to develop an unbeaten 138-run association with Will Jacks.
Root later announced his 18th ODI century off a mere 96 balls, demonstrating masterful strokeplay as well as impeccable temperament. Root’s dominance extends beyond ODIs too. He is also England’s leading run-scorer in Test cricket, with 13,006 runs to his credit a reflection of his greatness in all formats.
