JuicyTalk
England‘s batting maestro Joe Root has added yet another glorious chapter to his legendary career by surpassing the iconic Sachin Tendulkar to become the second-fastest batter to reach 23,000 international runs.
Root achieved this monumental feat during the recently concluded first ODI against Sri Lanka at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street. By cross the historic milestone in his 521st international innings, the former England captain has firmly cemented his status among the absolute elite of modern-day cricket, reminding the world of his relentless run-scoring appetite.
5 fastest batters to reach 23,000 runs in international cricket
1) Virat Kohli (IND) – 490 innings
The Indian run-machine sits comfortably at the top of this illustrious list, being the only batter in cricket history to breach the 23,000-run mark in fewer than 500 innings. Virat Kohli achieved this staggering milestone against England at The Oval in 2021. Known for his unmatched consistency across all three formats, Kohli’s freakish scoring rate and flawless transition between Tests, ODIs, and T20Is make his record one that will stand the test of time.
2) Joe Root (ENG) – 521 innings
Root now occupies second place after completing the milestone in 521 innings. The England batter has continued to produce runs consistently, particularly in Test cricket, where his technique, patience and ability to manipulate the field have made him one of the most dependable batters of his generation. His latest achievement also adds another significant chapter to his growing list of individual records.
3) Sachin Tendulkar (IND) – 522 innings
Tendulkar had previously been second on the list, reaching 23,000 international runs in 522 innings in 2002 against South Africa. Although Root has now moved ahead of him in terms of innings taken to reach this particular landmark, Tendulkar’s overall international record remains extraordinary. The former India batter finished his career with 34,357 international runs, a tally that continues to represent one of the greatest achievements in the history of the sport.
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4) Ricky Ponting (AUS) – 544 innings
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting occupies fourth place, having reached 23,000 international runs in 544 innings. Ponting was one of the defining batters of Australia’s dominant era and was renowned for his attacking strokeplay, particularly his trademark pull shot. His contributions with both bat and leadership played a major role in Australia’s success during his international career.
5) Jacques Kallis (SA) – 551 innings
South African legend Jacques Kallis completes the top five after reaching the milestone in 551 innings. Kallis’ achievement is particularly notable because of his immense workload as an all-rounder. Alongside scoring heavily across formats, he was also a highly effective frontline fast bowler. His exceptional technique, consistency and durability established him as one of the most complete cricketers of his generation.
Root continues to strengthen his place among cricket’s greats
Root’s latest milestone underlines the extraordinary consistency he has maintained throughout his England career. While England have often embraced an aggressive approach with the bat, Root has provided stability and control, combining classical technique with the ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when required.
Following his latest achievement, Root has also moved into eighth place on the all-time list of international run-scorers. With plenty already achieved and his appetite for runs showing little sign of slowing down, the England veteran continues to add to a legacy that places him firmly among the leading batters of the modern era.
