Joe Root arrived in Australia knowing this could be his moment. Until now, Joe Root’s Test centuries had never come on Aussie soil, leaving a gap in an otherwise stellar career. But this Ashes 2025-26 series was different, and the Sydney Test offered the perfect stage for redemption.

Related Article：The Moment Joe Root Scored a Century in Australia and Silenced Every “Average Joe” Headline

Dominating the Sydney Test

At the Sydney Test, Root produced a masterful 160 off 242 balls. He steadied England after early wickets saw the score slump to 3-57, first combining with Harry Brook for a 169-run stand. Brook made 84 before edging to first slip, and Jamie Smith could only manage 46. Root remained unbeaten at the crease for long periods, punishing loose balls and rotating strike expertly. By lunch on day two, he had already passed his 100 with a lovely straight drive off Michael Neser.

Joe Root brings up his second Test century in Australia 👏#Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/bXwBXY7nw0

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2026

Root’s innings wasn’t just about runs; it was about control and timing. He lost very few false shots, displayed a range of drives and cuts, and single-handedly lifted England to 384. This knock added another entry to Joe Root’s Test centuries and helped him extend his lead in most runs in Ashes 2025-26, proving why he’s still England’s backbone in crunch moments.

He just keeps going 😍 pic.twitter.com/CYzkl3qYh7

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 5, 2026

Roots’ Record Chase

With this century, Root equalled Ricky Ponting’s tally, moving to 41 Joe Root’s Test centuries. Only Sachin Tendulkar (51) and Jacques Kallis (45) sit above him. In terms of total runs, Root now has 13,937, just 1,984 shy of Tendulkar’s 15,921. In the ongoing series, he also leads most runs in Ashes 2025-26, showing that age hasn’t dulled his edge.

The Sydney Test had its moments of tension. Root battled through heat, fatigue, and a disciplined Aussie attack. He survived a few nervous 90s before confidently crossing 100. England’s other batters struggled; Ben Stokes went out for a duck, and Brook’s wicket brought England back under pressure. Yet Root’s calm presence ensured England avoided collapse. Every cover drive and off-side dab was a reminder of why he consistently tops most runs in Ashes 2025-26.

Partnerships That Shone

Root’s ability to build partnerships is key. With Brook, he crafted the series’ highest stand, combining attack and defence beautifully. Even as wickets fell around him, Root rotated strike, kept the scoreboard ticking, and applied pressure back on the Australians. This innings at the Sydney Test cemented his status as a reliable anchor and added another feather to Joe Root’s Test centuries.

Conclusion

Root isn’t done yet. With age on his side and a clear eye on Tendulkar’s records, he could top both centuries and most runs in Ashes 2025-26 before retiring. His performance in the Sydney Test demonstrates he still has the skill, patience, and temperament to excel at the highest level.