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Tendulkar Opens Up As Root Closes Gap On Test Cricket's Scoring Record

England's Joe Root has narrowed the gap significantly in pursuit of Sachin Tendulkar's all-time Test cricket run-scoring record. With 14,278 runs across 169 matches, Root now sits just 1,643 runs behind the Indian batting legend's benchmark.

LSN India · 5 November 2026

Joe Root's relentless accumulation of Test cricket runs has placed him on a trajectory to eventually surpass Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record as the format's highest run-scorer. The England batter currently occupies second position in the all-time standings, having amassed 14,278 runs from 169 matches and 309 innings. Tendulkar's total of 15,921 runs has stood as the benchmark since his retirement in 2013, a mark many observers believed would remain untouchable for years to come. However, Root's consistent performances at the international level have steadily eroded that advantage, bringing the prospect of a new record-holder into realistic view. Tendulkar has now publicly shared his perspective on Root's pursuit of his achievement, acknowledging the quality and dedication required to approach such elite status in Test cricket. The former Indian opener's comments reflect recognition of the sustained excellence demanded to remain competitive at the highest level of the sport. Root, currently 31 years old, continues to demonstrate the form and fitness necessary to maintain his run-scoring trajectory, suggesting the record transfer may occur within the coming years.