Sachin Tendulkar Supports Joe Root's Historic Quest

In a recent Reddit AMA, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar praised England's Joe Root for his impressive run-scoring achievements, as Root approaches Tendulkar's all-time Test runs record. Tendulkar expressed his admiration for Root's talent since his debut in 2012. Additionally, he proposed a significant change to the One-Day International format, suggesting a split into two 25-over innings to maintain competitive balance. This article explores Tendulkar's insights on both Root's career and the future of ODI cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 3, 2026, 22:54 IST

Tendulkar Endorses Root's Record-Breaking Ambitions

Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar has expressed his admiration for England's captain Joe Root, who is on the verge of surpassing a significant Test run-scoring milestone. Tendulkar has held Root in high regard since his debut in 2012. During a recent Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on Reddit, Tendulkar was queried about Root's chase for the all-time Test runs record.

Currently, Root ranks as the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history, amassing 14,278 runs across 169 matches and 309 innings. He is now just 1,643 runs away from Tendulkar's record of 15,921 runs, which he achieved in 200 matches and 329 innings, a record that still stands.

In his response, Tendulkar praised Root, stating, "I’ve always rated him very highly, and it was clear to me from his first Test match that he was destined for greatness!" Root made his Test debut against India in December 2012 in Nagpur, where he scored 73 runs in the first innings and remained not out on 20 in the second, resulting in a drawn match.

Acknowledgment of International Batting Excellence

When asked about his favorite non-Indian batsmen, Tendulkar mentioned England's Harry Brook, Joe Root, and Australia's Steve Smith.

Suggestions for Revamping ODI Cricket

Tendulkar also reiterated his proposal to reform the One-Day International (ODI) format by dividing the 50-over match into two innings of 25 overs for each team. He emphasized that the format should maintain 10 wickets for the entire 50 overs, using a single ball throughout the game.

"My suggestion is straightforward. Split the 50 overs into two innings of 25 each. However, keep 10 wickets for the full 50 overs and use just one ball throughout. This approach keeps the competition between bat and ball alive, allowing both teams to bat and bowl under similar conditions. It creates a balance for both sides. We must act before bowlers become obsolete," he stated.