New Delhi: As the Ashes series progresses, Steve Smith and Joe Root, both celebrated cricketers, continue to showcase their talents. Root, currently the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history, is pursuing Sachin Tendulkar’s world record of 15,921 runs, needing 2,232 runs to surpass him. Smith, meanwhile, is also on the rise but lags behind Root, with only Root having more runs among active players.
Smith has accumulated 10,557 runs over 121 Test matches, boasting an impressive average of 55.85, along with 36 centuries and 44 fifties. In contrast, Root has reached 13,689 runs in 160 Tests at an average of 51.46, highlighted by 40 centuries and 66 fifties, following a notable unbeaten 138 in the recent day-night Test.
It is significant to note that Smith has played 40 fewer Tests than Root and is currently 3,132 runs away from surpassing him in total runs scored in Test history. At 36 years old, it seems improbable for Smith to break Tendulkar’s record, considering both his age and the competitive landscape. However, analysts suggest that should Smith maintain his fitness and performance, he could play for another three to four years, potentially overtaking Root if he chooses to retire within the next few years.
Currently, Root’s excellent form will pose a challenge for Smith as he continues to score runs prolifically.
Most Runs in Test Cricket History (Statistics as of the end of Day 2 in the 2nd Ashes Test):
| Players | Runs Scored |
|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | 15,921 |
| Joe Root | 13,689 |
| Ricky Ponting | 13,378 |
| Jacques Kallis | 13,289 |
| Rahul Dravid | 13,288 |
| Alastair Cook | 12,472 |
| Kumar Sangakkara | 12,400 |
| Brian Lara | 11,953 |
| Shivnarine Chanderpaul | 11,867 |
| Mahela Jayawardene | 11,814 |
| Allan Border | 11,174 |
| Steve Waugh | 10,927 |
| Steve Smith | 10,557* |
Can Steve Smith Surpass Root in Centuries?
Smith, with his 36 centuries, stands closely behind Root, who has scored 40 centuries. Root requires 12 more centuries to tie with Tendulkar’s all-time record of 51. While it remains uncertain if Root can achieve this milestone, he will need to step up his game to keep Smith at bay in this category.
