England's Joe Root produced a masterful, unbeaten century on the opening day of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, finally conquering his Australian hoodoo and in the process saving a former opponent from a deeply embarrassing forfeit.
A Long-Awaited Landmark Down Under
On Thursday, 4th December 2025, Joe Root walked off the Gabba at stumps having crafted a brilliant 135 not out, steering England to a total of 325 for 9. This monumental innings marked his 40th Test century, but more significantly, it was his first ever three-figure score on Australian soil. Despite his prolific career, success in Australia had eluded the former captain until this pivotal knock in Brisbane.
Hayden's Bold Promise Comes Back to Haunt Him
The context of Root's achievement was amplified by a bold pre-series pledge from Australian batting great Matthew Hayden. Prior to the Ashes, Hayden had publicly declared that if Root failed to score a century in Australia during the series, he would have to walk around the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) naked as a forfeit.
As Root meticulously built his innings, the spectre of that humiliating walk loomed large for the legendary opener. However, when Root finally pushed the ball for the single that brought up his hundred, he didn't just reach a personal milestone; he effectively granted Hayden a reprieve from his own audacious wager.
Root Anchors England's Innings
Facing a potent Australian attack, Root's innings was a lesson in concentration and skill. Arriving at the crease with early wickets having fallen, he provided the backbone of the England innings, combining stout defence with elegant strokeplay. His unbeaten 135 ensured his team finished the day in a position of relative strength at 325-9, a total built almost single-handedly around his commanding presence.
This performance not only rewrites a curious gap in Root's illustrious career record but also injects crucial momentum into England's Ashes campaign. For Matthew Hayden, it will be a story of relief mixed with a newfound respect for Root's ability to deliver under the weight of history and humorous external pressure.
