Timesofindia.com in Manchester: Ollie Pope was very smiling at the end of day 3 in Manchester while he was warmly spoke of Joe Root’s brilliance with the bat and the resilience of Ben Stokes with the ball. England had ended the day on 544 for 7, leading India in 186 points during the fourth test. “Rooty’s stroke was exactly what the team needed,” said Pope. “It is a joy to look at. The way he continues to intensify is simply incredible. Four or five years, he struck a ridiculous number of hundreds. He continues to improve.” The 150 root rounds were not only a major moment in the match but also historic. It took him Ricky Ponting on the list of all the Run-Buners. Only Sachin Tendulkar is now ahead. “It’s not massive for milestones,” said Pope, laughing. “But it’s cool – the second more tests. I’m sure he was aware.” When asked for the root that potentially catches the tendulkar file, Pope did not exclude it. “The way he strikes, I am sure he will be led to be n ° 1. He is hungry.” Pope also offered a fitness update on Stokes, which had briefly retired because of cramps. “He’s fine. Just a little.
Survey
Will Joe Root go beyond the Sachin Tendulkar record for tests?
Pope had previously associated Root in a stand of 144 points before being dismissed for 71. The right -hander was full of admiration for how the senior players of England took charge in a potentially online test. With root rewriting records and soldier stokes, England seems well placed to press their advantage to Old Trafford.
Pope supporting his teamate, what a shocker! Next headline: ‘Water is wet’ lol
Everyone doubted Tendulkar too when he started. Maybe Root will surprise us all? I’m backing him to give it a real go atleast!
Finally someone backing Root! He deserves all the support. One of the greatest batsmen of this generation no doubt about it.
Root needs what, like 50+ more tests? And maintain his form throughout? Intresting challenge but the odds are against him honestly.
Sure Jan. And I’m gonna win the lottery tomorrow 🙄
Pope be like ‘yeah mate go break that record’ while secretly thinking ‘thank god its not me under that pressure’ 😅 Smart man that Pope
Root is absolut legend but lets be real here, Sachin record is almost imposible to break. The man played 200 tests! Root would need to play till he’s 45 atleast.
Lmao ‘of course it will be driven’ – yeah driven straight into retirement before he gets close 😂
Root averages more than Tendulkar in tests actually so quality wise he’s there. Its just about longevity now. If England play enough tests and Root stays fit, who knows? Stranger things have happend in cricket.
This is just media hype. No way Root plays another 50 tests. Hes gonna retire in next 2-3 yrs max
Of course Pope will say that lol. What else he gonna say? ‘Nah Joe’s too old’? Come on guys use ur brain.
I dont think this is realistic at all. Root is great player but age catches up with everyone. His fitness and form both need to stay consistent for years. Too many variables here.
Joe Root currenty has 147 tests if im not wrong. Sachin played 200. Thats 53 more tests needed. Root is already 33 years old, so even if he plays every single test for next 3-4 years, its gonna be very very tough.
Why we always comparing players from different eras?? Each one was great in their own time. Just enjoy the cricket ffs
Root has been in amazing form tho cant deny that. But Sachin’s record stood for reason – the man was machine. Root is brilliant but that level of consistency over 20+ years? Tough ask mate.