Yesterday, one of the premier batters of the modern era finally ended his duck of not scoring a century in almost six years. Of course, I’m talking about Joe Root. The 34-year-old batter scored a scintillating knock of 120 runs in just 111 balls. But despite his best efforts, England ultimately lost the match and are now knocked out of the tournament.
With England’s Champions Trophy hopes hanging by a thread, Joe Root stepped up when they needed him the most. Chasing 326 in a must-win game against Afghanistan, England needed a steady hand, and Root delivered. He brought up his long-awaited century in 98 balls, holding the innings together while wickets tumbled at the other end.
JOE ROOT SMASHED AN ODI HUNDRED AFTER 6 YEARS
— ScoreWaves (@ScoreWaves) February 26, 2025
• 53rd International Hundred for the Greatest batter from England, he standing alone for them at Lahore, What an incredible player. #JoeRoot #IbrahimZadran #ENGvAFG #ODIs #AFGvsENG #ChampionsTrophy #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/t5FE2B0nSG
This knock wasn’t just another hundred. It was a milestone that had been six years in the making. Root’s last ODI century came in 2019 against West Indies in Southampton. Since then, he had played 39 ODIs, scored over a thousand runs, hit 10 fifties, but never managed to reach three figures. That frustrating wait finally ended as he crafted a brilliant 120 off 111 balls. His innings included 11 fours and a six before Azmatullah Omarzai finally got the better of him.
With this hundred, Root joined an exclusive club. He became only the second England batter to score multiple centuries in Champions Trophy history, matching Marcus Trescothick’s record. His name also helped rewrite history in another way. This was the 11th century of the 2025 Champions Trophy – the most ever scored in a single edition. He now stands alongside a star-studded list of centurions that includes Ibrahim Zadran, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Ben Duckett.
England’s tournament might be over, but Root’s masterclass will be remembered. He reminded the world why he’s still one of the best in the business.
Also Read: Ibrahim Zadran Creates History – Highest Individual Score in Champions Trophy History
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