Following the conclusion of the gripping second Test between England and India at Edgbaston in Birmingham, a major shift has taken place at the summit of the ICC Test batting rankings. England’s veteran run-machine Joe Root has surged back to the No.1 position, dethroning Kane Williamson after yet another display of pure class with the bat. Root’s remarkable consistency and elegant run-scoring have once again reminded the cricketing world of his unmatched prowess in the longest format.
Root’s innings in the second Test was nothing short of a masterclass. On a pitch that tested technique and temperament, he stood tall amid the chaos, compiling a composed and fluent century that tilted the momentum in England’s favour at a crucial juncture. His knock came against a world-class Indian bowling attack, showcasing his ability to adapt and dominate even under intense pressure. It was the kind of innings that not only wins matches but also sways global rankings — and that is exactly what happened.
This isn’t the first time Root has reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings. He had held the top spot on multiple occasions in the past, but this resurgence comes at a time when England’s Test cricket has been undergoing a dramatic transformation under the “Bazball” approach. While many players have embraced a more aggressive brand of cricket, Root has managed to find a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, maintaining his classical technique while subtly increasing his scoring rate.
What makes Joe Root’s ascent back to No.1 even more impressive is the quality of competition at the top. The likes of Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, Babar Azam, and Marnus Labuschagne have all been jostling for supremacy, with each bringing a different style and strength to the table. For Root to outshine them again speaks volumes of his durability, mental strength, and hunger for runs.
On the Indian side, the Test in Birmingham was marked by flashes of brilliance but a lack of sustained dominance. The bowling unit, despite early breakthroughs, failed to contain Root’s finesse. His ability to rotate strike, find gaps effortlessly, and punish loose deliveries kept the scoreboard ticking and the pressure mounting on the visitors. It was a classic Joe Root innings — not flashy, but full of substance.
His return to the top is not just a personal achievement but a significant boost for England as they look ahead to future Test assignments. With Joe Root in this kind of form, England’s middle order looks more secure, and their prospects in upcoming series appear far brighter. His consistency also provides a steadying influence in a team that is often fluctuating in performance with its all-out attacking approach.
Joe Root’s rise is a timely reminder that in a world increasingly dominated by white-ball power hitters, there is still a premium placed on classical Test batting. His return to the No.1 spot is both a validation of his relentless work ethic and a celebration of the enduring beauty of orthodox cricket. England’s maestro is back on top — and cricket is better for it.