England’s Joe Root showcased his prowess in the Ashes series by scoring his 41st Test century on day two of the Sydney Test, matching Ricky Ponting’s record. Root achieved this milestone in his 163rd Test appearance, surpassing Ponting’s 168 matches. This century also marked Root’s first international hundred of the 2026 calendar year.
Root, who started the day at 72, led England’s batting with a composed innings, guiding them to 272 for 5. His innings included 11 boundaries against a challenging Australian bowling attack. This century was Root’s second on the tour, a significant achievement after not reaching the milestone in his previous 14 Test matches in Australia.
The English captain’s century was built on crucial partnerships that frustrated Australia’s bowlers. Root shared significant stands with his teammates, including a 169-run partnership with Harry Brook and a 94-run partnership with Jamie Smith. Despite a late collapse in England’s innings, Root’s contribution was pivotal in steering his team towards a competitive total.
Australia found a breakthrough when Michael Neser took a remarkable catch to dismiss Root, ending his resilient innings. Root’s dismissal marked the conclusion of England’s first innings at 384 runs. Neser’s exceptional catch and subsequent wicket of Josh Tongue provided Australia with a late boost in the match.
