Fri Nov 29 15:26:01 UTC 2024: ## Root Reaches 150-Test Milestone, Marred by Unwanted Duck
**Christchurch, New Zealand –** England’s star batsman, Joe Root, reached a significant milestone in his career on Friday, playing his 150th Test match against New Zealand. However, the celebration was soured by an unwanted record. Root became only the third player to be dismissed for a duck in their 150th Test appearance.
Root, who entered the match with a career average of 51.01 and 12,754 Test runs, was bowled by Nathan Smith for a zero. He attempted to flick the ball through the covers but was undone by a deflection off his thigh onto the stumps. This joins him in an unfortunate club alongside Australian legends Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting.
While the duck was a disappointing end to a landmark match, Root’s overall career remains exemplary. He has scored 1,338 runs this year at an average of 55.75, including five centuries and four half-centuries. With 35 Test centuries to his name, Root remains a pivotal player for England. Friday’s dismissal was his 13th duck in a 12-year Test career.
Despite the inauspicious start to his 150th Test, Root’s achievement underscores his remarkable consistency and enduring contribution to English Test cricket. He joins an elite group of only 11 players to have reached this milestone.
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