Sydney, Australia – England’s batting stalwart Joe Root etched his name further into cricket history by scoring his 41st Test century, drawing level with Ricky Ponting for third place on the all-time men’s Test hundreds list, during day two of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Resuming on 72 not out after rain curtailed play early on day one, Root continued his innings with trademark composure despite improved bowling from Australia and an increasingly inconsistent pitch. The former England captain remained unflustered as wickets fell around him, guiding the innings with calm authority.
Root watched Harry Brook (84), Ben Stokes (0) and Jamie Smith (46) depart at the other end but carried on to reach 138 not out at lunch, anchoring England’s innings in challenging conditions.
Second Century of the Tour
The milestone hundred was Root’s second century of the current tour, ending a long-standing drought in Australia. Remarkably, Root had failed to reach three figures in his previous 14 Test matches Down Under before this Ashes series.
His latest knock not only reinforced his status as one of the modern game’s greats but also underlined his importance to England in a high-stakes series finale.
Ashes and World Test Championship Context
England currently trail 3–1 in the five-Test Ashes series, but victory in Sydney would still be significant. A win at the SCG would earn England 12 crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27, as they look to climb from seventh place in the nine-team standings.
With Root in imperious form, England will be hoping their senior batter can once again steer them toward a strong finish in the series.
Ashes 2025–26 Schedule
• First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21–22 (Australia won by 8 wickets)
• Second Test: Gabba, December 4–7 (Australia won by 8 wickets)
• Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17–21 (Australia won by 82 runs)
• Fourth Test: MCG, December 26–30 (England won by 4 wickets)
• Fifth Test: SCG, January 4–8
As play continues in Sydney, all eyes remain on Root as he looks to convert his historic century into a match-defining performance for England.