Joe Root is poised to achieve a remarkable milestone in the upcoming first Test against New Zealand. The world’s top-ranked Test batter requires just 75 runs to become the first player in history to score 2,000 runs against the Black Caps.
Upcoming Test Series Against New Zealand
The three-match Test series is set to commence on June 4, 2026, at Lord’s, famously known as the Home of Cricket. Root has been a pivotal figure for England, being the highest run-scorer in the team’s Test history.
Root’s Milestones and Achievements
- Currently, Root has accumulated 1,925 runs in 40 innings against New Zealand, spanning 21 Test matches.
- He stands on the brink of surpassing notable players such as Javed Miandad, who scored 1,919 runs in 18 Tests.
- Beyond the matchup against New Zealand, Root needs only 57 runs to reach the 14,000-run mark in his Test career, joining the elite ranks of cricketers.
All-Time Leading Run-Scorers Against New Zealand
| Player | Time Span | Matches | Innings | Runs | 100s/50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | 2013-2024 | 21 | 40 | 1,925 | 6/9 |
| Javed Miandad | 1976-1993 | 18 | 29 | 1,919 | 7/6 |
| Rahul Dravid | 1998-2010 | 28 | 56 | 1,659 | 6/6 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 1990-2012 | 24 | 39 | 1,595 | 4/8 |
| Jacques Kallis | 1999-2013 | 28 | 40 | 1,543 | 6/6 |
Root’s Overall Test Performance
Having played 163 Test matches, Root boasts a total of 13,943 runs. He has registered 41 centuries and 66 half-centuries, securing his position as the leading run-scorer among active cricketers.
Records Within Reach
- To become the top run-scorer in home Test matches, Root needs 340 more runs.
- Ricky Ponting’s record of 7,578 runs stands as the benchmark for Root to surpass.
As Root steps onto the field at Lord’s, all eyes will be on him as he aims for these historic milestones. His contributions could significantly affect the outcome of the series against New Zealand.
