Sun Dec 08 22:28:56 UTC 2024: ## Root Blasts 36th Test Century, Shatters Records in Wellington
**Wellington, New Zealand:** England’s star batsman Joe Root continued his sensational run in Test cricket, smashing his 36th Test century against New Zealand in Wellington. This milestone was achieved with a daring reverse scoop shot for four, showcasing Root’s aggressive style.
This is Root’s 19th Test century since 2021, significantly outpacing other batsmen. Kane Williamson (9) and Harry Brook (8) are distant second and third in this period.
Root’s achievement also saw him surpass Rahul Dravid’s record for the fewest innings to reach 36 Test centuries. Root reached the milestone in 275 innings, one fewer than Dravid. While this is a remarkable feat, the world record still belongs to Ricky Ponting (200 innings). Sachin Tendulkar is third on the list (218 innings).
This century is also Root’s 52nd in international cricket, placing him second among active players behind Virat Kohli (81). Furthermore, Root has significantly extended his lead in the “Fab Four” – himself, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Virat Kohli – with 36 centuries, leaving Smith and Williamson (both on 32) and Kohli (30) trailing.
First Piper 