Joe Root has surpassed South African legend Jacques Kallis to become the fourth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history during England's gripping battle against India in Hyderabad.
The former England captain reached the milestone with a composed innings, underlining his status as one of the modern game's greats. His achievement came on a day where Ollie Pope's magnificent unbeaten 148 gave England hope of pulling off a remarkable comeback.
Pope Leads England's Resistance
Ollie Pope produced a masterclass in batting against spin, crafting his highest Test score in Asia to drag England back into contention. His 148 not out included a mix of classical strokeplay and innovative sweeps, frustrating India's bowlers on a turning pitch.
Root's Historic Moment
Root's 29 runs in the innings took him past Kallis's tally of 13,289 Test runs, with only Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Kumar Sangakkara now ahead of him. The Yorkshireman achieved the feat in his 138th Test, demonstrating remarkable consistency throughout his career.
Match Situation
England ended day three on 316-6, leading by 126 runs after being forced to follow-on. Pope found strong support from Ben Foakes (34) and Rehan Ahmed (16*), with the visitors showing the kind of fight that was absent in their first innings collapse to 246 all out.
The match hangs in the balance as England look to set India a challenging fourth innings target on a deteriorating surface that continues to offer assistance to spinners.
