Joe Root Stands Beside Ricky Ponting’s Centuries at Sydney Test

During the fifth and final test at the Sydney cricket ground on Monday, England’s Batsman Joe Root extended his successful Ashes run in Australia by scoring his 41st test Century. This was his second century of the series. With the historic century of 146 balls, Root tied Australian legend Ricky Ponting for third position on the all-time list of test hundreds. Now he is behind only Jacques Kallis and Sachin Tendulkar.

Record-Making Century of Joe Root

Root finished a normally controlled innings that combined authority and patience with a calm surge for two off Michael Nesser to reach three figures. When day 2 resumed on 72, the 35-year-old batted through the morning session to lead England to 272 for 5. In his innings, he hit 11 fours, while dictating terms against Australia’s bowling attack. He faced bowlers like Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Cameron Green.

Another important chapter in Root’s developing affinity with Australian conditions was added by the SCG hundred. Root had never struck in an international century in Australia before this tour. The Sydney hit was his maiden red-ball century at the Sydney Cricket Ground. It solidified his dominance in the second half of the series. Earlier in the series, ended that long-standing doubt with a magnificent unbeaten 138 in the Brisbane day-night test.

 Highlights of Ashes 2025-26, 5th test so far

• In the fifth and final Ashes test on Monday, an arrogant Joe Root scored an incredible 160 to propel England to 384.
• Only a magnificent catch and bowled by Michael Neser ended Joe Root’s outstanding innings. With that, he is now standing beside Ricky Ponting’s century count. Michael finished with 4-60.
• Travis Head scored a lightning-fast, undefeated 91. He let loose to bring Australia back into the match.
• Australia lost Jake Weatherald (21) and Marnus Labuschagne (48) on day 2. The kangaroos had to negotiate the second day’s last session at a sold-out Sydney cricket ground.
• Neser, the nightwatchman, once one with Head, as the hosts stormed to 166-2 at stumps.